Tag Archives: pluralism versus authoritarianism

Al-Monitor: Turkey’s Stairway to A Democratic Heaven

LGBT-stairway

The crumbling, concrete street stairs in an Istanbul alley have become the latest battleground for the colorful pluralism of society and the “gray” authoritarianism of politicians in Turkey. It was Aug. 26. After a four-day effort and using almost 40 kilograms of paint, Huseyin Cetinel proudly gazed upon his colorful accomplishment. With the help of his son-in-law, Cetinel had managed [...] → Read the full article…

The Economist: Resentment against Erdogan explodes

It all began with a grove of sycamores. For months a tight band of environmentalists had been protesting against a government-backed project to chop the trees down in order to make room for a mall and residential complex in Istanbul’s Taksim Square. Last week they organised a peaceful sit in, camping, singing and dancing by the threatened trees. On May [...] → Read the full article…