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There is no place for the public in politics!

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Archival work is important. It is even more important in politics.

When we conduct an archival study on the political agenda and priorities in politics, we encounter an interesting picture.

There is nothing for the public to do in the current agenda.

Is it because the powers of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) have been effectively reduced? Or is it because democratic mass organizations (in the fashionable term, 'civil society organizations') have weakened? It is unknown.

Let's rewind the film.

You have heard of Stoicism. The principle is roughly this: Do not make issues out of matters you cannot change; take responsibility and act on those you can and should change.

Let us apply this principle to politics from the perspective of the public. There is no place for the public in the current agenda.

But in the real agenda... That is where current politics has no place.

The cost of living, the right to live in a healthy environment, the right to access healthcare services, the right to education, the protection of public assets... Although there are things the public can do regarding these issues, there is neither a guide nor a political line of struggle.

Perhaps the only area where the agenda of politicians and the agenda of the public intersect is the struggle for justice. And I am doubtful that the same thing is meant there as well.

Those unfairly dismissed from their jobs, those burdened with debt, those subjected to securitization, those whose personal rights are violated... In the eyes of all these people, justice has no meaning.

This is also a reason for hopelessness and inaction. There seems to be no way to solve the problems experienced every day. Only a magic wand will touch... A petition will be accepted... The way will be cleared for some... The public will elect them... and everything will change. After that election process, the public will remain a spectator again. We will remain spectators again...

There is no place for us in a politics where we are merely spectators, where we are confined to the stands.