Call to Europe from Le Monde: 'The collapse of democracy in Turkey threatens the future of Europe'

An article titled "An open letter to democratic Europe," published in the respected French newspaper Le Monde, has stirred debate within the EU. Criticizing European leaders by saying, "If you want to show that democratic values are not just fancy words in your speeches, you must take action," European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) Deputy General Secretary Mustafa Kuleli stated, "We can start pushing back autocrats with the democratic resistance in Turkey. But we can only succeed if we act together."

The article by Kuleli, Deputy General Secretary of the EFJ—the continent's largest professional organization for journalists, representing more than 320,000 media workers—is as follows:

'Support Turkey's democrats'

I have always considered myself an optimist. Yet, for the first time in my life, I feel pessimistic about the future of Turkey.

The arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, President Erdoğan's most significant political rival, marks the end of the illusion that democratic competition still exists in Turkey. With this move, the government has clearly shown that it no longer cares even for the appearance of electoral legitimacy. We are moving from competitive authoritarianism toward an established autocracy.

Moreover, the pressure is not limited to opposition politicians. Bar associations, independent media, academics, artists, feminist organizations, and even high school students are being targeted. Social media users are being interrogated and punished for sharing their opinions. All organized and unorganized opposition is being systematically silenced.

Yes, the Erdoğan regime has been emboldened because regional and international actors, led by the European Union and the Trump administration, have adopted a pragmatic stance. They need Erdoğan's cooperation on issues such as migration, regional security, and energy, and in exchange for this cooperation, they are prepared to turn a blind eye to human rights violations.

This weak international response is not only disappointing but also encourages authoritarianism. It creates space for autocrats to go further, knowing that the cost will be minimal.

So, make no mistake: the trajectory of Turkey is not just our internal affair.

Geopolitical balances have shifted. The war in Ukraine, instability in Syria, and tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean have provided Erdoğan with a new field of maneuver. While the EU, struggling with its own crises, has increased cooperation with Ankara on security and migration, it can only direct weak criticisms toward Turkey's democratic collapse. European leaders are caught between democratic values and short-term interests, and unfortunately, we know which one politicians usually choose.

However, there is something being forgotten: the collapse of democracy in Turkey has serious consequences for the transatlantic alliance and the future of democratic norms in Europe and its surroundings. A stable, democratic, and secular Turkey is not a luxury; it is a necessity.

This is where civil society plays a major role. European governments may be reluctant to act. However, European civil society, which has supported journalists, activists, and democratic institutions for years, can still raise its voice. And this voice is needed now more than ever.

Journalism in Turkey is dying. The few remaining independent media outlets are under constant pressure. These individuals and organizations need support to keep their journalism alive and visible. More importantly, they need their counterparts in Europe to speak out—not just behind closed doors, but publicly and loudly.

I know many of you are weary. Some in Brussels even joke about being "Turkey-tired." After years of crises, disappointments, and a sense of political collapse, you might prefer to look the other way. But we have no other friends to turn to. You may be our only ally. And only you can truly pressure decision-makers in Europe.

If Europe does not show solidarity today, it will be the second great betrayal of Turkey's democrats. The first was the EU's silence in the face of Erdoğan's refugee blackmail. The second will be even more devastating because this time, an emotional rupture will occur.

News Source: 12punto