Latest

50 years later: Status quo holds in Cyprus as political will wavers

17.07.24

As another milestone approaches for Cyprus, politicians and analysts said the main impediment to renewed talks was a persistent lack of political will, both from domestic and international actors.

Weighing options: Erdoğan attends SCO summit as Fidan talks BRICS

03.07.24

Strained as they might be, Turkey-EU ties will not be replaced by Ankara’s stated interest in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, according to foreign policy experts. Instead, they argued, Turkish officials are weighing their options under pressure from tough economic conditions at home and instability abroad.

Turkey-Greece thaw proceeds in shadow of Cyprus, territory disputes

14.05.24

Facing unresolved disputes on maritime boundaries and Cyprus, Erdoğan and Mitsotakis reaffirmed commitments to resolve issues through dialogue during a bilateral meeting in Ankara.

Q&A: Yurter Özcan, CHP representative to the US

23.04.24

A discussion with Yurter Özcan, the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) representative to the US, on the party’s post-election outlook, foreign policy and its stance on regional developments like the Ukraine and Israel wars.

Inf-election point: How inflation hit voters and then Turkey’s ruling party

01.04.24

As the results of Turkey’s local elections are tallied, a few trends are emerging from preliminary outcomes, one of which suggests high inflation has caught up with voters – pensioners in particular – prompting many to vote against the AKP and its economic policies.

The AKP thinks it can take İstanbul. Pollsters disagree.

20.03.24

With less than two weeks to go, the AKP is framing the İstanbul election as a municipal matter, but pollsters say the race is seen more as a referendum on Erdoğan and a scene-setter for the next presidential elections. They said the messaging mismatch, along with other voter trends, are giving İmamoğlu a slight advantage in the race.

Prospects for peace summit: Weighing Erdoğan’s offer to host Ukraine-Russia talks

13.03.24

While Turkey is unlikely to host proposed peace talks in near-term, both Kyiv and Moscow have become more dependent on Ankara for trade and its utility as an intermediary. Experts said this clout, in turn, has given Turkey more room to maneuver with not only Ukraine and Russia, but also Western allies.

Mediator or rebuilder: Turkey’s potential role in the Israel-Gaza war

27.02.24

Nearly 5 months on, the Israel-Gaza war continues to evolve in many directions and so do the Turkish government's aspirations to mediate or take part in the post-conflict process.

Lone wolves: Why İYİ Party is running against former allies

20.02.24

By 5 pm today, all political parties will have submitted their candidate lists for the March 31 local elections. Unlike recent contests, most leading parties are fielding their own candidates, notably in pivotal races like İstanbul and Ankara.

Kurum vs. İmamoğlu: Electoral strategies take shape in tough İstanbul race

14.02.24

After Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) secured electoral victory last May, Turkish citizens will once again go to the ballots on March 31, this time to elect representatives on the municipal, district and provincial levels.

Trash money: Turkey is formalizing its waste sector. Informal collectors want to be included.

13.02.24

For decades, İstanbul’s waste bins have been managed by informal networks of waste collectors. The groups assign workers to keep watch on individual bins or to circle neighborhoods – hand cart in tow – all to sort and sell discarded materials for income.

Turkey banned a hazardous pesticide in 2020. It’s still showing up in food.

23.01.24

After multiple government studies in the United States and Europe found a common pesticide posed serious neurological risks for children, the European Union banned it in 2020.

Declaring 2024 as 'the year of retirees', Erdoğan hikes pensions amid high inflation

17.01.24

“Number go up” is the title of a new book on cryptocurrencies, and also a fact of life for consumers in Turkey, where prices keep rising after 2023 closed with official annual inflation at about 65 percent last month.

Turkey vote on Sweden NATO bid appears imminent. Maybe.

20.12.23

On a recent trip to Budapest, Erdoğan is believed to have coordinated with Orbán on Sweden’s NATO bid, which might go a vote in Turkish parliament soon despite several lingering friction points.

How the Israel-Gaza war is impacting Turkey’s role in the region

6.12.23

Erdoğan’s critical rhetoric against Israel can be read as ideological and electoral posturing, but the steady drum beat of indignation also threatens to undermine his stated aim of playing a role in conflict resolution.

Constitutional change is gonna come: Why now and what to expect

21.11.23

As calls for constitutional change grow louder in Turkey, analysts said the discourse could help Erdoğan frame 2024 local elections as a competition of national visions rather than municipal management.

With Israel at war, Turkey’s Jewish community faces new threats, old concerns

08.11.23

A month after the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, Israeli forces are mounting a ground offensive in Gaza as a bombing campaign in the strip continues to raise the civilian death toll among Palestinians, many of which are children.

What comes next for Hamas members in Turkey?

17.10.23

Following the Oct. 7 surprise attack by Hamas and amid Israel’s bombing campaign with prospects for a “long and difficult war” as stated by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, the presence of Hamas members in Turkey will likely come under increasing scrutiny.

Nagorno-Karabakh: What the Zangezur Corridor means for Turkey and the region

04.10.23

In official discourse, the Zangezur corridor is pitched as a project to connect Nakhchivan to the rest of Azerbaijan and Turkey to the rest of the Turkic world. Yet the proposed trade route could have broader regional implications, like facilitating Russian sanctions evasion or curtailing Iran’s overland trade, all while bypassing its host nation, Armenia.

An accession to grind: What’s next for EU-Turkey relations?

20.09.23

With officials in both Brussels and Ankara seeking out realistic approaches to manage bilateral trade, geopolitics, security and more, Turkey recap spoke with diplomats and analysts in attempt to figure out where EU-Turkey relations might be heading next.

Tilting the balance: What does Erdoğan get by meeting with Putin?

05.09.23

The short answer might involve the continuation of Turkey’s unique position as a NATO member that can mediate between Ukraine and Russia. A longer answer is more about advancing Erdoğan’s domestic agenda at home and broader Turkish interests abroad.

What drives nationalism in Turkey?

24.05.23

The night of May 14, before election results were clear, hundreds of people gathered in the streets near the İstanbul headquarters of the Justice and Development Party (AKP).

Foreign policy priorities: What to expect from Turkey’s top parties

12.05.23

Whoever wins the presidency and/or parliamentary majority will set Turkey on a path with long-lasting ramifications for its citizens, international partners and foes.

Foreign policy forecast: What analysts expect after elections in Turkey

05.04.23

Despite some key differences, the mid- to long-term forecast for both leading presidential contenders, Erdoğan and Kılıçdaroğlu, is an extension of Ankara’s recent rapprochement efforts into the foreseeable future.

FPRI Webinar: Turkey and Syria After the Earthquakes

21.02.23

Join FPRI Senior Fellow Selim Koru, in a conversation with journalists Diego Cupolo (Turkey Recap) and Erin O'Brien (War on the Rocks), and analyst Gönül Tol (Middle East Institute), each of whom have first hand accounts of the aftermath of the earthquakes in southern Turkey.

Q+A: Kerim Has on Turkey-Russia relations

24.01.23

A deep dive interview with Moscow-based political analyst Kerim Has on where Turkey-Russia relations stand and where they might be heading (on multiple fronts).

Despite ‘crypto winter,’ digital currency use remains high in Turkey

07.09.22

Crypto is down, but not out for dedicated traders, particularly in high inflation markets like Turkey, where digital tokens continue to draw users looking to earn, save and transfer hard currencies.

Buy now, probe later? Russians snap up Antalya property, raising prices and eyebrows

16.08.22

Through much of 2022, Russian citizens have been leading a record surge in Turkish home purchases by foreigners, a trend that could attract scrutiny from Western officials as an avenue to circumvent war-related sanctions.

TurkAegean or Greek Lake: The War of Words Over the Aegean Sea

05.07.22

A long-brewing sovereignty dispute is resurfacing over the status of Aegean islands, as defined by a string of historic accords, which Turkish officials have increasingly scrutinized, raising alarms among some observers who warn the prospects for escalation are growing.

Turkish journalists, free speech advocates protest draft bill

21.06.22

Turkish press unions organized nationwide rallies Tuesday to protest the likely passage of a so-called disinformation bill. They worry that jail sentences of up to three years for spreading fake news could be applied to any news the government disapproves.

Turkey gambles on economic turnaround as cost of living skyrockets

22.12.21

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is waging a “war of economic liberation” — and so far the losers are his country's citizens who have seen the cost of living rise sharply.

In apparent mix-up, France releases man suspected of Khashoggi murder links

08.12.21

A Saudi national held over suspected ties to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi was released Wednesday after Paris officials determined the arrest was a case of mistaken identity.

Government critic elected to lead Union of Turkish Bar Associations

06.12.21

Defeating a pro-government incumbent, Ankara Bar Association Chair Erinc Sagkan was elected head of the Union of Turkish Bar Associations on Sunday, pledging to strengthen the rule of law and independence in Turkey’s legal profession.

Turkish Central Bank intervenes to curb 'unhealthy' lira losses

01.12.21

Amid a sharp slide in the nation’s currency, the Turkish Central Bank announced it would intervene in markets and sell foreign exchange reserves Wednesday to stem volatility in the Turkish lira.

Erdogan doubles down on economic policy amid currency volatility

29.11.21

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated his stance against interest rate hikes Monday, sending the Turkish lira down 4% as the nation’s economy faces high inflation.

Food price hikes feared in Turkey after currency slump

22.11.21

Turkish social media swirled with rumors Monday of possible bread price hikes following a record slide in the nation’s currency, which economist say could add to inflationary pressures.

Erdogan vows to keep fighting interest rates

17.11.21

Ahead of a central bank rate-setting meeting, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated his stance against high interest rates Wednesday as the nation’s currency plumbed new lows.

Israel seeks release of couple arrested for espionage in Istanbul

15.11.21

In an incident that threatens to further strain Turkey-Israel relations, Tel Aviv is working to secure the release of an Israeli couple arrested in Istanbul Friday after reportedly taking photos of a presidential residence.

Turkish Airlines denies fueling Belarus-Poland migration crisis

10.11.21

After EU officials threatened to blacklist airlines facilitating travel for asylum-seekers amassing at the Poland-Belarus border, Turkish Airlines denied links to the bloc’s latest migration crisis.

Rezoning of Istanbul islands raises concerns of AKP meddling

08.11.21

A presidential decree has transferred zoning control of Istanbul’s opposition-run Princes’ Islands to the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization, raising concerns of anti-democratic practices by Turkey’s ruling party.

Turkish inflation nears 20% on rising food, energy costs

03.11.21

While Turkey’s latest official inflation figures beat expectations, raising some concerns over data integrity, consumer prices are expected to keep rising amid growing global energy costs.

In troubled US-Turkey relations, F-16 deal seen as path for dialogue

01.11.21

US President Joe Biden and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met Sunday to discuss an F-16 fighter jet purchase, which analysts see as an avenue for “positive” dialogue amid bilateral tensions.

With F-16 deal in limbo, Erdogan-Biden meeting postponed to Glasgow

27.10.21

Following a diplomatic row this week, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told reporters Tuesday he would seek to confirm a divisive F-16 deal with US counterpart Joe Biden at the COP26 conference in Glasgow.

Erdogan backpedals on threat to expel 10 Western ambassadors

25.10.21

After threatening to expel 10 foreign envoys, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Monday appeared to de-escalate a diplomatic row sparked by the ongoing imprisonment of Turkish philanthropist Osman Kavala.

After critical EU report, Turkey’s bid to join bloc remains at a 'standstill'

20.10.21

Citing serious democratic backsliding, the European Commission’s latest report on Turkey found few areas of progress in the nation’s long-stalled accession process as Brussels seeks avenues to improve relations.

Ankara summons 10 ambassadors over call to free Turkish philanthropist

19.10.21

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry summoned the ambassadors of the United States, Germany and France, among others, after they called for the release of Osman Kavala, a Turkish philanthropist jailed over four years without conviction.

Ankara hints at new Syria operation after spate of attacks near border

13.10.21

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the nation “would do what is necessary” to clear Syrian border areas of Kurdish militants after missile attacks killed two Turkish police officers Sunday.

‘Museum under the sea’ invites divers to explore Gallipoli wrecks

06.10.21

The wrecks of British and French ships sunk during the battle for Gallipoli have been opened to divers as an “underwater museum” at the bottom of the Dardanelles Straits in western Turkey.

Territorial spats reheat ahead of Turkey-Greece talks

05.10.21

Citing disputed territorial claims, the Turkish navy twice blocked research missions by a Greek Cypriot-contracted vessel as Turkey and Greece prepare for bilateral talks in Ankara on Oct. 6.

Turkey’s opposition parties drop hints of future cooperation

27.09.21

In expressing support for the reinstitution of a parliamentary system and revisiting the Kurdish question, Turkey’s opposition parties appear to be reaching across ideological divides to counter President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in future elections.

After summer of severe floods and fires, Turkey to ratify Paris Agreement

22.09.21

In his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the Paris Climate Agreement would be submitted to Turkey’s parliament for approval next month.

Turkish university students camp in parks to protest rent hikes

21.09.21

Citing trouble finding affordable housing ahead of the fall semester, student groups across Turkey are organizing campout events in protest of rising rental prices.

Half of adults in Turkey vaccinated as COVID-19 rates surge

11.08.21

Turkey passed a milestone Wednesday, announcing half of its adults are fully vaccinated, though COVID-19 rates remain near a three-month high, likely due to the fast-spreading Delta variant.

Forest fires raise calls for new climate policies in Turkey

06.08.21

In addition to their ecological and political impacts, severe forest fires in Turkey may raise pressure on the government to reassess its climate change policies. Turkey remains one of six nations that has yet to ratify the 2015 Paris Agreement.

Ankara unsettled by role in US program to relocate Afghans

04.08.21

Washington unveiled a program Monday for Afghan refugees to seek asylum in the United States via third countries, including Turkey, raising criticism from Ankara officials who fear the move could fuel a new migration crisis.

Turkish inflation climbs to two-year high, likely delaying interest rate cut

03.08.21

Turkey’s annual inflation rose higher than expected in July to 18.95%, just shy of the Central Bank’s key interest rate, reducing prospects for an early interest rate cut this summer.

License holder of coup-linked app faces 15-year jail term in Turkey

28.07.21

An American citizen of Turkish origin reportedly turned himself in to Turkish authorities and faces a 15-year jail sentence for his role in founding the ByLock phone app, which state officials claim was used by supporters of a failed coup in 2016.

Erdogan, Tatar announce controversial plan to further reopen Cypriot ghost town

20.07.21

A controversial plan to partially reopen an abandoned resort area in Cyprus’ buffer zone under the administration of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus threatens to further raise tensions within Cypriot communities.

Erdogan supports two-state solution, unveils new projects in Northern Cyprus visit

19.07.21

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced Ankara would help construct a presidential palace and new parliament building in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus during a high-level visit to the breakaway state Monday.

Five years after coup attempt, Turkey to vote on extending emergency powers

14.07.21

Turkey's parliament is set to vote on an omnibus bill that includes measures to extend state-of-emergency powers three more years.

Stream of Afghan asylum seekers reported in eastern Turkey

13.07.21

As the United States continues its troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, disputed reports indicate a rising number of asylum seekers of Afghan origin are crossing Turkey’s eastern border.

Pro-Kurdish lawmaker released from Turkish prison after five-day delay

06.07.21

Pro-Kurdish lawmaker Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu was finally released from prison Tuesday, five days after Turkey’s Constitutional Court ruled his rights had been violated in his detention.

Turkey prepares to leave women's rights convention

30.06.21

A decision by Turkey’s Council of State Tuesday opened the way for the nation to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention to prevent violence against women on July 1 despite condemnation from international bodies and women’s rights advocates.

Reports on Turkey-Qatar military training accords questioned by Erdogan critics

29.06.21

A military education agreement between Turkey and Qatar drew backlash from opposition members in Ankara after local media reporting misrepresented its content, though rumors persist.

Advocates call for greater focus on democratic rights in Turkey ahead of European summit

23.06.21

As European leaders prepare to review EU-Turkey relations in a summit this week, advocates urged greater links between future cooperation and improvements in basic rights and the rule of law in Turkey.

Top Turkish court accepts revised indictment to ban pro-Kurdish party

21.06.21

Turkey’s Constitutional Court on Monday accepted a case seeking the closure of the nation’s second-largest opposition party, the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), after a top prosecutor revised and resubmitted an indictment alleging members collude with terrorists.

Turkey gives record 1.24 million vaccine doses in one day

16.06.21

Long lines formed outside Turkish vaccination clinics this week after health officials ramped up the nation’s inoculation drive, administering a record 1.24 million vaccine doses Tuesday.

Turkish lira dives after inconclusive Erdogan-Biden meeting

15.06.21

Propelled by optimism over a possible S-400 missile compromise, Turkey’s lira slid Tuesday after the first meeting between US President Joe Biden and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ended without clear progress.

Top Turkish prosecutor refiles case to shutter pro-Kurdish party

08.06.21

The pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP), Turkey’s third largest party, faces the threat of closure once more after a top prosecutor refiled an indictment late Monday seeking to ban nearly 500 members from politics on terror-related charges.

Turkish attack near Makhmour camp extends anti-PKK operations deeper into Iraq

07.06.21

Days after warning of a coming operation on Iraq’s Makhmour camp, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said a senior Kurdistan Workers Party official was “neutralized” near the camp Saturday, underlining Ankara’s drive to put pressure on militants in the region.

Turkish lira remains volatile after surprise dip in inflation data

03.06.21

Turkey’s annual inflation unexpectedly dropped to 16.59% in May, according to data published Thursday. The news did not steady the nation’s currency, which slid on market concerns over an early interest rate cut.

Turkey eases COVID-19 measures as new cases plummet

01.06.21

With recorded daily COVID-19 cases falling below 7,000, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan further eased social distancing measures across the nation June 1.

Arrest warrant issued for exiled mobster who promises to 'ruin' Turkish officials

27.05.21

Turkish prosecutors issued an arrest warrant Thursday for exiled mobster Sedat Peker, whose video exposes have implicated high-level officials and left ruling party insiders struggling to respond.

Top Turkish minister fights corruption allegations from exiled mafia boss

25.05.21

Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said he would not resign and defended his record against allegations by an exiled mafia boss whose wide-spanning YouTube confessions have gripped Turkish politics.

European Parliament calls for suspension of Turkey accession talks

20.05.21

In a critical report, the European Parliament has suggested suspending Turkey’s long-stalled EU accession negotiations unless negative domestic and foreign policy trends are reversed.

US condemns Erdogan remarks toward Israel as anti-Semitic

19.05.21

The US State Dept condemned Erdogan's comments on Israel as anti-Semitic, a claim Ankara officials refuted, saying it distracts from ongoing violence.

Crypto fever grips Turkey despite risks, new regulations

16.05.21

Turkish citizens are increasingly investing in cryptocurrencies to shelter savings from the volatile Turkish lira and possibly make profits on the side, a trend that has led to both increased risks and increased government regulations.

Turkish lira nears record lows as emerging markets struggle

13.05.21

Turkish stocks slid and the lira hit a six-month low against major currencies Thursday as higher-than-expected US inflation data weighed on emerging markets.

Lockdown stems virus surge in Turkey but slow vaccination raises concern

12.05.21

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Wednesday a nationwide lockdown would be gradually lifted as planned on May 17, though health experts urged caution amid a vaccination campaign slowed by supply hurdles.

Turkish Central Bank keeps interest rates high as inflation weighs on economy

06.05.21

Cornered by rising inflation and a weakening currency, Turkey’s Central Bank kept its benchmark interest rate steady at 19% on May 6 as policymakers await positive signals.

Turkish-Armenian lawmaker threatened over genocide remarks

28.04.21

A criminal complaint was filed against Turkish lawmaker Umit Ozdag after he threatened Garo Paylan, an Armenian deputy with the Peoples’ Democratic Party, over remarks regarding the Armenian genocide.

Turkish health experts, workers call for social support ahead of 17-day Covid lockdown

27.04.21

As Turkey prepares for a 17-day lockdown to stem a surge in COVID-19 cases, health experts and workers’ unions urge more financial support for citizens most impacted by pandemic restrictions.

US-Turkey relations to be tested by possible Armenian genocide recognition

22.04.21

US President Joe Biden is reportedly preparing to recognize the 1915 mass killings of Armenians as genocide Saturday in a move that could further strain troubled US-Turkey relations.

Erdogan fires trade minister amid scandal, reshuffles cabinet

21.04.21

In a pair of midnight decrees Wednesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dismissed Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan over an alleged nepotism scandal and began a long-rumored cabinet reshuffle.

Gold mining company to file $1B claim against Turkey over halted project

20.04.21

Canadian mining company Alamos Gold announced Tuesday it would seek $1 billion from Turkey after mining concessions expired for a controversial project in the nation’s northwestern Canakkale region.

Turkey tightens COVID-19 restrictions as Ramadan holy month begins

14.04.21

Responding to a surge in new cases, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced tighter COVID-19 restrictions for the first two weeks of Ramadan, saying measures could be extended if current trends continue.

Turkish court sentences 32 to life in prison over 2016 coup

07.04.21

In mass trial of 497 defendants, an Ankara court issued 32 life sentences to former soldiers Wednesday for their involvement in a 2016 coup attempt to oust Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Top EU officials seek improved ties, positive agenda in meeting with Erdogan

06.04.21

Focusing on economic cooperation, migration and human rights, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Council chief Charles Michel sought to improve EU-Turkey ties during a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on April 6.

Turkey detains 10 retired admirals after statement triggers coup scare

05.04.21

A group of retired Turkish navy admirals are under investigation after penning a letter on a Bosporus Strait treaty government officials claim is “reminiscent of coup times.”

Top Turkish court rejects bid to close pro-Kurdish party

01.04.21

Citing technical flaws in a case seeking the closure of the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party, the Turkish Constitutional Court rejected an indictment by a top prosecutor, setting the stage for possible rifts among political alliances in Ankara.

Turkish lira volatile after central bank deputy head removed

30.03.21

Ten days after his appointment, Turkish central bank governor Sahap Kavcioglu sought to rebuild confidence in Turkey’s markets Tuesday following another shake-up in the bank’s top managers.

Turkey to reimpose curfews after new COVID-19 cases double

29.03.21

Putting normalization efforts on hold, Turkish officials will reimpose weekend curfews after the rate of new COVID-19 cases doubled in recent weeks.

European Council report presents roadmap for EU-Turkey ties

23.03.21

Ahead of a European Council summit this week, a report by EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell laid out a roadmap to deepen bilateral trade despite recent setbacks in Ankara’s human rights record, while outlining economic sanctions should more turbulence arise.

Turkish markets rattled after surprise firing of central bank head

22.03.21

Turkey’s lira and main stock index slid about 9% Monday as markets reacted to the surprise removal of the nation’s central bank chief amid broader political turmoil.

Lawsuit filed to close pro-Kurdish party after lawmaker stripped of parliamentary seat

18.03.21

Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu, a pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party deputy known to focus on human rights abuses, was stripped of his parliament seat and a lawsuit was filed to close the party March 17.

Turkey pursues normalization drive as COVID-19 case counts rise

16.03.21

Turkish officials to maintain lighter COVID-19 restrictions through much of the country, as new infection numbers rise and vaccination campaigns continue.

Turkish journalist attacked after criticizing nationalist figure

09.03.21

Turkish journalist Levent Gultekin was attacked by two dozen assailants outside his workplace Monday evening in the latest act of violence against critics of Turkey’s nationalist party.

Former Halkbank executive resigns as head of Istanbul stock exchange

08.03.21

Borsa Istanbul CEO Mehmet Hakan Atilla stepped down Monday in a move possibly linked with the impending US trial of Turkey’s Halkbank, where he was convicted of helping Iran skirt US sanctions.

Turkish inflation rises, raising expectations of further rate hikes

03.03.21

Turkey’s inflation rate rose to 15.61% in February, marking the fifth month of consecutive increases and raising expectations for the central bank to introduce further rate hikes.

Erdogan unveils human rights reforms, raising skepticism among advocates

02.03.21

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Tuesday announced an 11-point human rights action plan, pledging to fortify freedoms and legal protections after years of democratic backsliding under his government.

With Turkey set to reopen schools, educators and health experts urge caution amid pandemic

25.02.21

Turkey will resume widescale face-to-face education March 1 as some educators and health experts warn premature normalization measures could spur a rise in coronavirus cases.

As Erdogan finesses Turkey-US ties, Pentagon reiterates stance on S-400s

24.02.21

A Pentagon official urged Ankara to take action over its Russian-made S-400 missile acquisition after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed interest in restoring bilateral ties.

Turkey’s pro-Kurdish party under pressure as calls increase for its closure

23.02.21

The pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party faces renewed pressure in Turkey amid rising calls for its closure and recent court decisions that could see one of its lawmakers removed from parliament.

Lira slides as Erdogan defends former minister’s economic policies

22.02.21

In response to criticism from the opposition, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has defended the record of his son-in-law and former finance minister, sparking a 1% slide in the Turkish lira Monday after weeks of steady gains.

Prominent Turkish lawyer defiant after jail sentence over media trial

17.02.21

Eren Keskin, a prominent human rights lawyer, was among four defendants sentenced to prison on terror-linked charges Monday in a newspaper trial that raised concerns over media freedom in Turkey.

Turkey to purchase fourth drilling ship to expand energy projects

10.02.21

Amid maritime boundary disputes in the eastern Mediterranean and after a 2020 gas field discovery the Black Sea, Turkey’s state-owned oil and gas company is finalizing the purchase of a fourth drilling ship to expand its energy development activities.

Turkish official hints at possible S-400 missile compromise with US

10.02.21

Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said Tuesday that Ankara might be willing to "find a solution" for its Russian-made S-400 missile acquisition if Washington reevaluates its cooperation with Kurdish forces in Syria.

Erdogan likens students to terrorists, condemns Bogazici rallies

03.02.21

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan likened protesting students to terrorists in a speech Wednesday, condemning ongoing demonstrations over the appointment of a government-linked rector to Istanbul’s Bogazici University.

Turkish police clash with students as Bogazici protests near one-month mark

02.02.21

Turkish police cracked down on protests in Istanbul and Ankara, as demonstrations continued over the controversial appointment of a government-linked rector to head one of Turkey’s top universities.

Turkish students detained as Bogazici protests intensify

01.02.21

Police forces prevented demonstrations Monday, detaining several protestors attempting to rally against the recent arrests of Bogazici University students over a poster deemed insulting of religious values.

Turkish firms fined over 'exorbitant' food prices as inflation soars

27.01.21

Turkey’s Ministry of Commerce announced Wednesday it would issue nearly $500,000 in fines for companies it found to be charging "exorbitant" prices for food as the nation grapples with high inflation.

Six days after disappearance, Turkish worker returns home

26.01.21

Following a public outcry, Turkish electrician Gokhan Gunes returned to his family Tuesday after six days of alleged torture.

Turkish Central Bank holds interest rate steady

21.01.21

As forecasted, Turkey’s Central Bank policymakers held a key interest rate steady Thursday, saying they would continue working to reel in the nation’s double-digit inflation.

Under Biden, US-Turkey relations face delicate balancing act

20.01.21

Analysts expect the Joe Biden administration to take a harder stance than the Trump administration did on diverging US-Turkey policies, while noting Washington will also need to take pains to avoid alienating the key NATO ally.

Twitter, Pinterest face ad ban in Turkey under new social media law

19.01.21

The Turkish government issued advertising bans for Twitter, Periscope and Pinterest Tuesday after the platforms refrained from complying with a controversial social media law human rights advocates say will stifle free speech online.

Turkey prepares to distribute Chinese vaccine

13.01.21

With the Turkish government expected to begin mass distribution of the Chinese-made COVID-19 vaccine Sinovac this week, health experts are questioning its effectiveness and the state’s rollout strategy.

New WhatsApp terms spark antitrust investigation, exodus from app in Turkey

11.01.21

Turkey launched an antitrust investigation into Facebook and its popular messaging service WhatsApp Monday after the application’s new privacy terms raised concerns, prompting some users to seek alternatives.

Ukraine deports suspected Gulen supporters to Turkey

06.01.21

Turkey’s Interior Ministry announced the deportation Wednesday of two suspects from Ukraine over alleged ties to a terror group in what human rights advocates condemn as illegal renditions without due process.

Students protest appointment of Erdogan loyalist to head top Turkish university

04.01.21

Students and faculty members decried infringements on academic independence during protests Monday after a member of Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) was appointed by presidential decree to head one of the nation’s top universities.

Top Turkish court rejects appeal for release of philanthropist Kavala

29.12.20

Turkey’s Constitutional Court has rejected an appeal for the release of philanthropist Osman Kavala, ruling his more than three-year imprisonment without conviction did not violate his rights in contradiction to rulings by the European Court of Human Right

Europe human rights court calls on Turkey to release Demirtas

22.12.20

Europe’s top human rights court ruled Wednesday for the "immediate release" of Selahattin Demirtas, former co-chair of the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP), who has been imprisoned for more than four years in Turkey on terror-related charges.

Turkey sentences former opposition MP to 22 years in prison

21.12.20

A Turkish court Monday sentenced Leyla Guven, a deputy with the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) who was stripped of her parliamentary seat and legal immunity in June, to more than 22 years in prison on terrorism-related charges.

Turkish Central Bank to pursue tight monetary policy against inflation

16.12.20

Turkey’s Central Bank Governor Naci Agbal said Wednesday he would seek to stem inflation, possibly through further rate hikes, pledging to continue tight monetary policies and stabilize the nation’s currency.

Turkish lira remains stable after US sanctions

15.12.20

Turkey’s currency remained relatively stable Tuesday after the United States imposed limited sanctions on Ankara for acquiring Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems.

EU to sanction Turkey over gas-drilling activities

10.12.20

At a summit in Brussels Thursday, European leaders appeared ready to impose sanctions on Turkish individuals and companies linked to energy-prospecting activities in the eastern Mediterranean Sea that have raised regional tensions over the last year.

Eastern Libyan forces intercept Turkish ship en route to Misrata

08.12.20

Forces loyal to eastern Libyan strongman Khalifa Hifter intercepted a Jamaican-flagged Turkish ship in the Mediterranean Sea late Monday in a move that could escalate regional tensions.

Facing EU sanctions threat, Erdogan calls for dialogue once more

07.12.20

Ahead of a European Council summit in which EU leaders will discuss sanctions on Ankara this week over energy prospecting activities in the eastern Mediterranean, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated calls for dialogue, urging bloc members not

Turkish inflation creeps higher as Central Bank pressed to act

03.12.20

Turkey’s annual inflation hit 14.03% in November, well above forecasts, raising pressure on the nation’s new Central Bank governor to impose tight monetary policies.

North Cyprus leader pushes for two-state solution, agrees to informal summit

02.12.20

North Cyprus President Ersin Tatar reiterated support for a two-state solution as the island’s two leaders agreed to participate in an informal summit during talks with UN envoy Jane Holl Lute Tuesday.

Turkish labor leaders criticize state COVID-19 response as cases surge

01.12.20

Turkish officials introduced tighter curfew measures to curb a national surge in COVID-19 rates, drawing criticism from labor rights leaders over exemptions for production workers.

COVID-19 breaks records in Turkey as health experts call for tighter controls

24.11.20

New daily COVID-19 rates hit record highs four days in a row in Turkey, prompting local health officials to call for more stringent social distancing measures.

German mission searches Libya-bound Turkish ship, sparking backlash from Ankara

23.11.20

German forces intercepted a Libya-bound Turkish ship suspected of carrying arms, sparking the latest row between an EU member state and Ankara ahead of a key summit assessing bilateral ties next month.

Under new leadership, Turkish Central Bank delivers largest rate hike in two years

19.11.20

Following a shakeup in Turkey’s economy team, Central Bank policy-makers raised a key interest rate to 15% Thursday, pledging to fight high inflation and bolster the nation’s troubled economy.

Turkish health experts warn new COVID-19 measures don’t go far enough

18.11.20

The Turkish government has introduced partial curfews and other measures to curbing rising COVID-19 cases in the country, while health experts call for a full lockdown and more transparency in pandemic data.

Pompeo skips Ankara, meets with Christian leader in final Turkey visit

17.11.20

In his final visit to Turkey as US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo met with the Orthodox Christian spiritual leader in Istanbul Tuesday, forgoing meetings with state officials in a possible message to conservative American voters.

Turkish lira makes gains on renewed optimism

12.11.20

After hitting a series of record lows, Turkey’s currency rebounded more 7% this week as investors expect sharp policy reversals by the nation’s newly appointed economy team.

Amid market tumult, Erdogan appoints new finance minister

10.11.20

Investors are watching for policy shifts as Turkey’s Former Deputy Prime Minister Lutfi Elvan takes the helm of the nation’s Finance Ministry following the surprise resignation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s son-in-law Berat Albayrak.

Facebook, Twitter, other social media companies fined in Turkey

04.11.20

The Turkish government issued Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other major platforms fines of $1.18 million each for failing to comply with a new social media law.

Inflation rises in Turkey as lira falls for ninth consecutive day

03.11.20

Turkey’s lira hit new lows Tuesday, becoming the worst-performing emerging market currency of the year following a rise in inflation last month.

Izmir residents look for shelter, answers in earthquake aftermath

02.11.20

As Izmir residents recover from a 7.0 earthquake that hit Turkey’s third-largest city Friday, engineers look for ways to reduce structural damage in future natural disasters.

Erodgan sues Charlie Hebdo over caricature

28.10.20

An ongoing Turkey-France spat deepened after French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo published a caricature of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, prompting legal action from Ankara.

Turkish lira slump continues as foreign tensions simmer

27.10.20

The Turkish lira continued record losses Tuesday against major currencies as analysts questioned Central Bank independence and Ankara saw political spats deepen with foreign allies.

Trial in Turkey over death of prominent Kurdish lawyer postponed

21.10.20

Court proceedings over the 2015 killing of human rights lawyer Tahir Elci were postponed Oct. 21 until March 2021 after defense attorneys requested the recusal of the trial’s judge panel.

Turkish forces withdraw from largest base in northeast Syria

20.10.20

Ankara has begun pulling back forces and equipment from an observation post long surrounded by regime forces in Syria’s northeast Idlib province.

Turkey-backed president's election to reshape negotiations in North Cyprus

19.10.20

Northern Cypriots elected right-wing nationalist Ersin Tatar in runoff presidential elections Sunday, likely drawing a new path for peace talks and energy-revenue sharing negotiations amid rising regional tensions.

Erdogan demands new laws to reel in Turkish medical group

15.10.20

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged parliament to curb the influence of the Turkish Medical Association, which has been critical of the state’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Turkey resumes energy research in disputed waters

14.10.20

A Turkish seismic research vessel has resumed energy prospecting activities in disputed eastern Mediterranean waters, sparking renewed tensions with Greek and EU leaders, who called on Ankara to end its "provocations."

North Cyprus reopens contentious ghost town with Turkish support

08.10.20

Days before Northern Cyprus holds elections, Ankara backed the reopening of a ghost town in the island’s green zone in a polarizing move that could influence voter turnout.

Facebook rebuffs Turkey’s controversial social media law

06.10.20

Facebook told Turkish civil society members it would not comply with Ankara’s new social media law over concerns it would limit free speech rights, setting the stage for possible fines and access blocks on the platform as other social media companies consi

NATO chief presses for calm in East Med, cease-fire in south Caucasus

05.10.20

During a visit to Ankara Monday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg voiced support for de-confliction efforts between Turkey and Greece in the eastern Mediterranean while calling for a cease-fire in the southern Caucasus.

Turkish Health Ministry admits to posting partial COVID-19 data

01.10.20

Turkey’s health minister acknowledged Wednesday that state records do not reflect the full number of COVID-19 cases in the country, drawing fire from medical groups that have long claimed infection rates were underreported.

Pompeo says US-Greek relations at 'all-time high,' urges Athens-Ankara talks

29.09.20

In Greece, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged Athens and Ankara to resume talks over maritime disputes ahead of an EU summit later this week that is expected to address lingering tensions in the eastern Mediterranean.

Turkey considers new restrictions as infections rise

23.09.20

New COVID-19 cases and death rates in Turkey have returned to levels not seen since May, prompting officials to consider tighter restrictions following a partial reopening of public schools.

Turkish lira slips further as Central Bank unlikely to raise rates

21.09.20

The Turkish currency dipped further Monday as few economic analysts expect the nation’s Central Bank to reverse an easing cycle that’s kept borrowing costs below inflation.

Rights advocates decry mass detention of Turkish lawyers

16.09.20

Dozens of Turkish lawyers accused of terror links remain in police detention after dawn raids on their homes in Ankara on Sept. 11, drawing criticism from international human rights groups.

Possible resignation of Libya's PM raises questions over Ankara-Tripoli ties

15.09.20

Libyan Prime Minister Fayez-al Sarraj is reportedly planning to resign from his post and take on a caretaker role in the Tripoli government, a move that could complicate prior agreements with Ankara and raises questions over future bilateral ties.

Turkish court releases detained journalists, issues prison sentences pending appeals

09.09.20

In a mixed verdict, three Turkish journalists charged with revealing state secrets were released from jail during a trial Wednesday.

US officials say partial lift of Cyprus arms embargo not related to Turkish-Greek tensions

02.09.20

Amid ongoing Turkey-Greece tensions in the eastern Mediterranean, US officials maintained the partial lifting of an arms embargo on Cyprus aims to reduce Russian influence and is not a step against Ankara’s recent maneuvers in the region.

Senior Islamic State figure in custody after Turkish raid

01.09.20

Turkish police detained a top Islamic State figure during a raid in the nation’s southern province of Adana as counterterrorism operations continue against the organization’s networks.

Germany appeals for calm as Turkish, Greek navies run drills in EastMed

26.08.20

The Turkish and Greek navies conducted drills in the eastern Mediterranean this week as German Foreign Minister Heiko Mass seeks to bring both nations back to the negotiation table.

Opting for backdoor measures, Turkey’s Central Bank holds interest rate steady

20.08.20

Turkey’s Central Bank left a key interest rate unchanged in favor of liquidity measures Thursday in what analysts described as a “missed opportunity” to send a positive signal to the markets.

Turkish officials delay school reopenings as new daily COVID-19 cases remain above 1,100

12.08.20

Turkish health officials delayed plans to reopen schools later this month, as medical experts warn of rising infection rates throughout the country.

Turkey to issue new drilling licenses in eastern Mediterranean amid rising tensions

11.08.20

Following escalations Aug. 10 between Turkey and Greece over contested areas of the eastern Mediterranean, Ankara officials said they would issue new exploration licenses in the region this month.

Greece calls on Turkey to stop renewed gas exploration activities in East Med

10.08.20

As Turkish vessels are dispatched near Greek territorial waters, analysts say tensions in the eastern Mediterranean Sea could quickly escalate if leaders on both sides do not reengage in diplomatic talks.

Turkish lira slides 2% amid reserves concerns

05.08.20

Turkey’s currency slumped 2% against the dollar Wednesday as concerns linger over Central Bank policies and depleted reserves.

Rumors swirl in Turkey as former presidential candidate reportedly seeks to form new political party

04.08.20

Muharrem Ince, a former presidential candidate for Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), reportedly expressed interest in establishing a breakaway party, fueling rumors analysts say might serve as a trial balloon for future political maneuvers.

Turkish health officials watch for COVID-19 cases to rise after holiday

03.08.20

Turkish health officials are calling for increased precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19 as citizens conclude festivities for the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.

Turkey’s lira slides as Central Bank raises inflation forecast

30.07.20

Despite state bank efforts to bolster Turkey’s currency, the lira fell to its lowest point since May against the dollar this week, prompting fears of a renewed currency crisis.

Turkish gas exploration to continue in Cypriot waters as Ankara, Athens discuss

29.07.20

Shortly after pausing gas-exploration activities near Greek islands to facilitate Ankara-Athens negotiations on disputed maritime boundaries, Turkey sent a NAVTEX message indicating another research vessel would seek gas near Cyprus.

Turkish lawmakers to debate controversial social media bill

28.07.20

With a vote expected this week, the Turkish Parliament is set to begin deliberations over a bill that would compel social media platforms and news websites to open offices in Turkey and even remove content upon government request.

Turkish philanthropist Osman Kavala marks 1000th day in jail

27.07.20

Despite the European Court of Human Rights' order for his release, Turkish philanthropist Osman Kavala remains imprisoned in Turkey on what supporters call politically motivated charges.

East Mediterranean tensions flare as Turkey seeks leverage in maritime border talks

22.07.20

Surveying activities by a Turkish ship in the eastern Mediterranean Sea have put Greek forces on high alert as Ankara seeks leverage in regional maritime border disputes.

East Mediterranean tensions flare as Turkey seeks leverage in maritime border talks

23.07.20

Surveying activities by a Turkish ship in the eastern Mediterranean Sea have put Greek forces on high alert as Ankara seeks leverage in regional maritime border disputes.

Murder of Turkish woman sparks nationwide protests

21.07.20

The murder of a Turkish woman sparks protests across the nation as government officials consider withdrawing from a convention designed to combat violence against women.

Four years on, former AKP insiders reflect on Turkey's failed coup

15.07.20

Former members and supporters of Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party discuss the four-year anniversary of the 2016 failed coup and say that the rule of law and democratic principles have been weakened in the country.

Another pro-Kurdish mayor replaced as detentions continue in southeast Turkey

14.07.20

Police detained more than 50 people on alleged terror links in southeast Turkey a day after yet another mayor with the People's Democratic Party was replaced with a state-appointed trustee.

Turkish lawyers protest as parliament debates bar association bill

09.07.20

As Turkey’s parliament debates a controversial proposal to weaken the influence of established bar associations, lawyers are protesting in the nation’s major cities.

Rising EU-Turkey tensions take center stage with Borrell visit to Ankara

07.07.20

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says he will to introduce new measures to hold social media platforms accountable after his family members were insulted online.

Turkish court hears case to convert Hagia Sophia into mosque

02.07.20

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says he will to introduce new measures to hold social media platforms accountable after his family members were insulted online.

Erdogan vows to tighten social media controls after insults on family

01.07.20

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says he will to introduce new measures to hold social media platforms accountable after his family members were insulted online.

Turkish unions threaten general strike over severance pay cuts

29.06.20

Turkish unions are denouncing proposed severance pay cuts that would impact 3.5 million workers, threatening a mass strike if the government does not change course.

Turkish court releases three journalists on trial for revealing state secrets

24.06.20

Journalists stood trial Wednesday for reporting on the funeral of a Turkish intelligence officer killed in Libya in a court case condemned by press freedom advocates.

Top Turkish lawyers complete protest march after 24-hour standoff

23.06.20

Initially denied entry to Ankara, several dozen heads of Turkish bar associations completed a march against a controversial proposal Tuesday after camping overnight on the capital’s outskirts.

Under pressure, pro-Kurdish party holds democracy rally in Istanbul

18.06.20

Despite a ban on protests, the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party held a demonstration in Istanbul Thursday following removal of two deputies from Turkey’s parliament.

Turkish courts reopen to backlog of press freedom cases

16.06.20

The resumption of court hearings in Turkey has press freedom advocates anxious, amid fears of a second COVID-19 wave and ongoing pressure on the media covering the pandemic.

Foreign Ministry rejects Libya cease-fire

10.06.20

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu dismissed an Egypt-brokered cease-fire in Libya, as Tripoli forces pursue an offensive on Sirte after a string of victories.

As Turkey gets back to business, doctors warn second wave could follow

03.06.20

Cafes and restaurants reopened and intercity travel resumed in Turkey after new cases of the novel coronavirus have steadily declined, though health officials warn failure to follow social distancing measures could lead to new infections.

Turkey cautiously reopens after national Eid curfew

27.05.20

Mosques, restaurants and stores prepare to gradually reopen with new coronavirus precautions in Turkey after four-day nationwide curfew for the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr.

Qatar triples swap line with Turkey

20.05.20

Qatar has offered support to Turkey’s central bank, expanding a currency-swap agreement to $15 billion as Ankara seeks to mitigate economic shocks from the coronavirus pandemic.

New banking regulations threaten press freedom in Turkey

19.05.20

Recent measures seeking to limit damaging information on the financial system pose new threats to press freedom in Turkey.

Turkish opposition trades favors as AKP limps

18.05.20

Turkey’s nationalist party leader Devlet Bahceli has floated a proposal to change electoral laws, fueling rumors of a possible snap election.

European court rejects Turkish appeal of Osman Kavala ruling

13.05.20

The European Court of Human Rights rejected an appeal by Turkish officials Tuesday, upholding a December ruling calling for the release of jailed Turkish philanthropist Osman Kavala.

Feuds continue over Turkey’s East Med gas drilling as global energy prices plummet

12.05.20

Despite the falling financial viability of several eastern Mediterranean energy projects, Turkish gas drilling activities are set to continue in the region, drawing condemnation from five nations Ankara accuses of forming an "alliance of evil."

Malls reopen, antivirus measures eased as Turkish economy teeters

11.05.20

Shopping malls, barber shops and some stores reopened across Turkey Monday as the government rolled backed coronavirus precautions with aims to bolster the battered economy.

Turkey's finance minister assures investors as lira slides

06.05.20

As Turkey’s currency neared record lows Wednesday, Turkish Treasury and Finance Minister Berat Albayrak worked to reassure investors in a rare conference call.

Turkey grapples with manufacturing downturn, weak demand amid pandemic

04.05.20

As demand and manufacturing output dip during the novel coronavirus crisis in Turkey, analysts warn inflation may rise in the coming months.

Domestic assault, violent crimes rise in Turkey amid coronavirus measures

27.04.20

Human rights advocates are calling for improved measures to protect families as urban curfews and a controversial prisoner release have led to increased assaults and domestic violence reports in Turkey.

Larger than expected rate cut raises pressure on Turkish lira

22.04.20

Turkey’s central bank surprised market watchers Wednesday with a significant interest rate cut to bolster the economy amid the coronavirus pandemic, though analysts say the move poses inflationary risks.

Delayed S-400 activation could offer chance for Turkey-US ties to warm

21.04.20

Citing complications amid the coronavirus pandemic, Ankara has postponed the activation of its Russian-made S-400 missile systems, possibly opening an avenue to ease US-Turkey tensions.

Turkish mayor, wife shot at home

20.04.20

The early morning shooting of a mayor and his wife in western Turkey has raised concerns among opposition lawmakers, who say a recently passed partial amnesty law may embolden criminals.

Mayors, scientists call for lockdown as COVID-19 cases pass 74,000 in Turkey

16.04.20

The mayors of 11 Turkish cities and scientists tracking the coronavirus pandemic in Turkey say a full lockdown is needed in urban areas to avoid an exponential rise in new infections.

Amid pandemic, medical groups question Turkey’s weekend curfew approach

14.04.20

Health workers’ advocates say precautions in Turkey may not be sufficient to contain the coronavirus and safeguard workers as the country grapples with the fast-spreading pandemic.

Turkish pandemic plan raises concerns over citizens' digital rights

09.04.20

In effort to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus, Ankara launched a mobile app that tracks patients, raising concern among digital privacy advocates.

Turkey cracks down on journalists, others as coronavirus rumors spread

07.04.20

Turkish journalists and social media users alike are facing charges for sharing "lies" and "manipulating the public" as Ankara finds its coronavirus responses under scrutiny.

Turkish political prisoners left out of plan to reduce jail population

01.04.20

As fear of the novel coronavirus grows, Ankara lawmakers are weighing reforms that would release up to 90,000 inmates from overcrowded Turkish jails, drawing criticism for excluding political prisoners.

Ankara cracks down on efforts by medical groups, opposition to address pandemic

31.03.20

Complaining of a lack of transparency, the Turkish Medical Association began publishing its own figures tracking the virus' spread Tuesday to the displeasure of the government, which has also halted donation drives initiated by opposition mayors.

Sex offenders may walk as lawmakers mull releasing one in three Turkish prisoners

25.03.20

Turkish women's rights groups have denounced a bill that would reduce sentences for sex offenders and other convicts to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus in prisons.

Despite stimulus, Turkish economy faces grave coronavirus prognosis

19.03.20

Economic analysts shared mixed reactions to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s stimulus package, with some saying it doesn’t go far enough.

Erdogan focuses on Turkish economy in first major coronavirus speech

18.03.20

Responding to the growing number of domestic coronavirus cases, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan unveiled measures to safeguard the nation’s economy while advising citizens to practice social distancing.

Details sparse as first coronavirus case reported in Turkey

11.03.20

Health officials announced Turkey's first confirmed coronavirus case late Tuesday but shared no details, leading disease specialists to urge more screening and greater transparency.

Thousands stranded at Greek border as Ankara pressures EU over Idlib escalation

02.03.20

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said border security would continue to stand down Monday as thousands of refugees and migrants attempt to enter Greece by land and sea.

Dismissed civil servants continue fight to restore rights in Turkey

24.02.20

In recent weeks, Ankara has eased travel restrictions for some citizens prosecuted in Turkey’s post-coup crackdown, yet thousands of dismissed civil servants continue to struggle for their right to work.

Turkish judges postpone verdict in Amnesty International case

19.02.20

A Turkish court has postponed its final rulings in the infamous Buyukada trial until April as the defendants use lengthy closing statements to enter every piece of evidence of their innocence into the record.

Erdogan vies for leverage in Syria's Idlib as Turkish troops reinforce positions

12.02.20

Following recent clashes between Syrian and Turkish troops, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan doubled down on threats to retaliate against ongoing regime offensive in Idlib.

Erdogan threatens Assad forces, seeks de-escalation in Idlib

05.02.20

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Ankara will retaliate if Syrian regime forces do not pull back from Turkish observation posts in Idlib by the end of the month.

Syria clashes, Ukraine visit test Turkey-Russia relations

04.02.20

Despite their opposing interests, analysts expect continued Ankara-Moscow collaboration following clashes between Turkish troops and Russia-backed Syrian forces.

Alarm as Turkey’s ruling party moves to empower night watchmen

30.01.20

A revived nighttime security force in Turkey may soon get the same powers as regular police, drawing protest from lawmakers and civil rights advocates.

Erdogan slams Russia as regime offensive sends Idlib residents fleeing for Turkey

29.01.20

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Moscow is not upholding the Astana and Sochi cease-fire agreements after Syrian regime forces retook a key city in Idlib Wednesday, sending a new wave of displaced civilians toward the Turkish border.

Turkey sends philanthropist back to prison despite European ruling

28.01.20

Turkish philanthropist Osman Kavala and 15 other defendants attended the fifth hearing of the Gezi trial today, when defense lawyers left the courtroom in protest of the prosecution's violation of Turkish legal norms.

Turkish state seizes foundation linked to Erdogan political rival

22.01.20

State authorities have taken over a second institution linked to former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, who resigned last year from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling party to form his own.

Turkey gains clout in Libya negotiations following Berlin conference

21.01.20

Though observers expect few on-the-ground changes in the Libyan conflict after the Berlin conference, Turkish leaders have secured a seat at the negotiating table moving forward.

Turkey-Egypt row escalates as Anadolu Agency staff detained in Cairo

16.01.20

Tensions are rising between Turkey and Egypt after four Turkish state news agency employees were detained in Cairo.

Erdogan vows to defend Tripoli government after Libya talks fail

14.01.20

Following the failure of a Russia-Turkey-brokered peace deal in Libya, Turkey's president reaffirmed his pledge to defend the government in Tripoli ahead of Sunday’s Berlin Conference.

Years after coup, purged civil servants feel trapped in Turkey

13.01.20

More than 130,000 dismissed civil servants continue to fight for their jobs and basic rights in post-coup Turkey, including those acquitted of their original charges.

TurkStream gas pipeline will bring Moscow, Ankara closer than ever

07.01.20

Turkey and Russia are set to inaugurate the TurkStream gas pipeline, which promises to increase Russian leverage in regional energy markets.

Turkish parliament approves troop deployment to Libya

02.01.20

The Turkish parliament approved a one-year mandate to deploy troops in support of the Tripoli government against an ongoing offensive led by eastern Libya commander Khalifa Hifter.