politics Archives - Umit Gumusten

Istanbul Protests and Protest Culture in Türkiye

Dictators Fear the Streets: The People’s Fight for Democracy in Türkiye

People cannot get their rights without taking to the streets. This is an undeniable truth. Governments, no matter how democratic they claim to be, rarely hand out rights freely. They must be demanded. They must be fought for. And in a country

April 1, 2025

Opinion

The Decline of Türkiye’s International Standing Under Erdogan’s Leadership

In his speech at the AKP Rize Provincial Organization Meeting, President Tayyip Erdogan addressed several critical issues, including the ongoing Israeli occupation in Gaza. Erdogan’s remarks, which included a veiled threat towards Israel, were characteristically bold and contentious: “Just as we entered

July 30, 2024

Opinion

The July 15: A Theater of Power Consolidation

The July 15 coup attempt in Türkiye, which marks its anniversary, is a contentious and complex event that has significantly altered the country’s political landscape. However, beneath the surface of the official narrative lies a perspective that views the coup attempt as

July 15, 2024

Opinion

The Shifting Political Landscape: A Global Perspective

The political landscape is undergoing significant transformation. Traditionally, the left and right wings have occupied distinct ideological territories. However, recent global developments suggest a convergence towards the center by left-wing politicians, while right-wing politicians are forming a more unified, global front. This

July 14, 2024

Opinion

Happy Labour Day! The Importance of the Organized Working Class in Türkiye

Early yesterday morning I started following the news from Istanbul. The first photos that landed on X in the early hours were a harbinger of how May 1 would go. The police had set up a barricade in front of the Bozdoğan

May 2, 2024

Opinion

Türkiye’s Challenging Balancing Act in a Multipolar World

In the ever-shifting landscape of international relations, Türkiye finds itself at a crossroads, juggling the delicate art of diplomacy between the East and the West. In a world where multipolarity is the new norm, the nation’s ability to navigate these contrasting alliances

September 28, 2023