** Demonstrations in Türkiye: a reflection of political tensions between the State and popular democracy **
The streets of Turkey are again the scene of massive demonstrations, a dynamic which illustrates the simmering tension between an increasingly authoritarian government and a civil society determined to claim its rights. The recent wave of demonstrations, which saw hundreds of thousands of people parading in at least 32 of the 81 Turkish provinces, started following the arrest of Ekrem İmaoğlu, the mayor of Istanbul and the rising opposition figure. This situation highlights not only an internal political conflict, but also a broader phenomenon of democratic struggle in the global context.
### a context of repression
The arrest of ̇mamoğlu is not an isolated incident; It is part of a climate of repression that has prevailed in Türkiye in recent years. Since the attempted coup in 2016, the government led by the AKP (Justice and Development Party) has multiplied the measures of control over the media, justice and the political opposition. The authorities now call “illegal” the rallies which, paradoxically, are the very essence of democratic practices. This reversal of the perception of civil rights leads to a reflection on the current definition of “legality” in a regime which seems increasingly moving away from democratic standards.
### An unprecedented popular response
The magnitude of the demonstrations of the past few days has revealed a surprising resilience of Turkish civil society. Statistics, although difficult to obtain precisely in such a climate, indicate that participation has largely exceeded expectations, with a massive influx of young people and people from all social backgrounds. Social networks like Twitter and Instagram have played a pivotal role in the organization of events, allowing rapid dissemination of information and unprecedented mobilization. We can compare this dynamic to other protest movements around the world, such as the Arab Spring or the demonstrations of Hong Kong, where modern technologies allowed citizens to unite against repressive regimes.
### The impact of economic policies
To this social dynamic is superimposed an economic crisis which exacerbates popular frustrations. Galloping inflation, which reaches alarming levels, and the devaluation of the Turkish pound creates a fertile soil for dissatisfaction. Economic inequalities, combined with widespread corruption, feed the feeling that the political class, dominated by AKP, is disconnected from the daily realities of citizens. Experience shows that in many countries, an economic crisis can catalyze popular movements, and Turkey is no exception.
### An increasing polarization
However, despite popular mobilization, Turkey remains deeply divided. The polarization between supporters of the government and the opposition is palpable, each camp accusing each other of wanting to harm the nation. Haine speeches and nationalist feelings exacerbated by the power in place contribute to this fracture. The question that arises is then whether the demonstrations will be able to transcend these cleavages and bring together a wide range of society around common claims for the rule of law and democratic freedoms.
### to an uncertain future
The government’s response to this rise in protest will be crucial for the evolution of the situation. The power in place could choose to harden its line, which could cause even more important and violent demonstrations. Conversely, a desire for appeasement and dialogue, although unlikely in the short term, could promote a process of national reconciliation.
### Conclusion: aspiration to democracy
Beyond the simple capital events, the demonstrations in progress in Türkiye are a symbol of the universal quest for freedom and democracy. They recall that, despite adversity, the desire for justice and participation remains rooted in the population. The international community, while condemning repression, must observe and support the aspirations of Turkish citizens to a democratic future, because, as we often observe in history, power inevitably returns to those who dare to claim their voice.
In Fatshimetrie, we observe these developments closely, reminding ourselves that each demonstration for democracy is a promise of change and hope for future generations.