Erdoğan's words draw attention: Özgür Özel writes for Journal of Democracy

In a significant contribution to the international discourse on democratic resilience, Republican People's Party (CHP) Chairman Özgür Özel has authored an article for the prestigious Journal of Democracy. Titled "How Do We Rebuild Turkey's Democracy?", Özel's piece lays bare the perceived erosion of democratic norms and institutions in Turkey since 2013. He contends that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, despite initial promises of reform, has systematically undermined democratic foundations, curtailed press freedom, and fostered cronyism, leading to a more authoritarian grip on power as his popular support waned.

“

Türkiye’nin, demokrasi ve hukukun üstünlüğü için tarihsel bir mücadelenin ortasında olduğunu

Özel draws a stark contrast between the current political climate and the aspirations of the Turkish people. He highlights the widespread public mobilization, with millions taking to the streets to defend free and fair elections, framing the current moment as a pivotal democratic struggle of the 21st century. The article emphasizes that the participants in these demonstrations – a diverse cross-section of Turkish society – represent the majority, not a marginal group, and are determined to safeguard democracy and the rule of law. This local perspective underscores a deep-seated commitment to democratic principles within Turkey, often overlooked in international analyses that may focus solely on geopolitical or economic factors.

“

2013’ten bu yana ülkenin, sürekli bir demokratik gerileme sürecinden geçtiğini

The CHP leader further contextualizes Turkey's democratic challenges by referencing the Hungarian experience, suggesting that elections in authoritarian regimes are not merely about leadership changes but about the potential for democratic reversal. Özel asserts that developments in Turkey carry global weight due to its strategic location and complex regional relationships. From a Turkish perspective, this struggle is not just about domestic politics; it is about defining the nation's future trajectory and its role on the world stage. The article implicitly critiques Western media coverage by suggesting it may not fully capture the depth of this internal democratic struggle or its profound implications for both Turkey and the broader international order. The CHP, as Özel presents it, sees itself at the forefront of this vital national and global cause.

“

İlk kez, geniş halk desteği ve ülkenin ekonomi ile siyasetini reform etme vaadiyle iktidara gelen Cumhurbaşkanı Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, zaman içinde demokratik kurumları sistematik biçimde zayıflattı, hukukun üstünlüğünü aşındırdı, basın özgürlüğünü kısıtladı, geniş müşteri ilişkilerine dayalı ağlar kurdu ve kendisine bağlı bir iş dünyası elitini teşvik etti.