Author: Serdar Imren

A new presidential directive focusing on the prevention of workplace psychological harassment, commonly referred to as mobbing, has been officially issued today by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This directive, published in the Official Gazette, seeks to not only protect employees from psychological harassment but also to enhance the measures for combating such behavior within various workplaces across the country. The comprehensive regulations allow employees affected by mobbing to utilize multiple channels for lodging complaints, potentially paving the way for a more secure working environment. Article Subheadings 1) Reestablishment of the Psychological Harassment Prevention Board 2) Responsibilities of Employers and Managers…

A recent survey conducted by Areda Survey has revealed that a significant portion of the Turkish public views PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan’s call for disarmament positively. Specifically, 57.5% of respondents welcomed his request, despite nearly half (47.4%) expressing skepticism about the likelihood of the PKK actually laying down its arms. The survey also highlighted a strong majority in favor of continuing military operations against the PKK, indicating public support for the government’s current strategy in the ongoing conflict. Article Subheadings 1) Public Reaction to Öcalan’s Call for Disarmament 2) Skepticism About the PKK’s Intentions 3) Support for Ongoing Military Operations…

Tensions have escalated between Iran and Turkey following remarks made by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who criticized Iran’s foreign policy regarding Syria. This diplomatic spat has led both nations to summon each other’s envoys, reflecting deep concerns over regional stability and mutual relations. The situation highlights the sensitive dynamics between the two neighboring countries, as they navigate their interests in the tumultuous Middle East. Article Subheadings 1) Turkish Foreign Minister’s Warning 2) Iran’s Response and Diplomatic Reactions 3) Context of Regional Relations 4) Internal Politics Influencing Foreign Relations 5) Future Implications for Iran-Turkey Relations Turkish Foreign Minister’s Warning In…

The political landscape in Turkey is witnessing a significant shift as Devlet Bahçeli, leader of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), actively engages in discussions surrounding a new initiative aimed at fostering peace and addressing the longstanding Kurdish issue. Despite recent health challenges that led to hospitalization, Bahçeli has resumed his role in the political dialogue. This initiative has garnered considerable attention, particularly following a historic call from imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan for his organization to disband, thus opening the door for potential reconciliation efforts between the Turkish government and the Kurdish political movement. Article Subheadings 1) Bahçeli’s Health and…

Turkish authorities conducted early morning raids on March 5, detaining four prominent Kurdish writers as part of an ongoing investigation led by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office. The arrests have sparked significant criticism from the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, which views the operation as an infringement upon cultural freedoms and a setback for peace initiatives. Those taken into custody include Mevlüt Aykoç, Sami Tan, and Ronahî Önen, who have been linked to the Kurdish language teaching resource “Hînker,” which has played a crucial role in Kurdish education. Article Subheadings 1) Background of the Detained Writers 2)…

In February, alarming statistics emerged revealing that men killed at least 17 women and nine children, a stark reminder of ongoing gender-based violence. Moreover, 42 women died under suspicious circumstances, raising questions regarding the nature of these deaths. Additionally, reports indicated that men inflicted violence on at least 51 women, forced 110 women into sex work, and harassed numerous others. The cases highlight the urgent need for protective measures and responses to gender-based violence in society. Article Subheadings 1) Overview of Gender-Based Violence in February 2) Case Study: Self-Defense or Crime? 3) Legal Proceedings and Accountability 4) The Trends of…

Recent developments regarding the Kurdish question have drawn significant attention, particularly the ongoing negotiations taking place in İmralı. These discussions aim to address the fears arising from the conflicts in Syria while exploring the ambiguous future of the “Apoist” structure. The complexity of the Kurdish issue necessitates engagement with multiple regional and international actors, as the implications extend beyond Turkey to include stakeholders such as the United States, regional governments, and various Kurdish entities. This comprehensive analysis delves into the intricacies of these negotiations, their potential impact on the Kurdish movement, and the changing dynamics in the region. Article Subheadings…

The ongoing legal battle surrounding the İstanbul Bar Association intensified as its president, İbrahim Kaboğlu, along with several board members, faced court proceedings regarding their statement condemning the killing of journalists in Syria. The trial was marked by significant policing measures and access restrictions for media and legal representatives, raising concerns about transparency and justice. As the case unfolds, it highlights broader issues of press freedom and the role of legal communities in safeguarding constitutional rights in Turkey. Article Subheadings 1) Court Hearing Details and Restrictions 2) Tension During the Trial 3) Legal Arguments Presented 4) Statements from İstanbul Bar…

In İzmir, a significant labor dispute has erupted as hundreds of workers engaged in strikes at three tobacco factories. The workers, organized by the Tekgıda-İş Union, halted production after failed collective bargaining negotiations regarding wages and social rights. With participation from Sunel Tobacco, Oriental Tobacco, and T.T.L. Tobacco, the issues stem from dissatisfaction with proposed wage increases, stirring solidarity among the workers as they demand fair compensation and better working conditions. Article Subheadings 1) Overview of the Strike 2) Reasons for Labor Unrest 3) The Role of the Tekgıda-İş Union 4) Workers’ Demands and Employer Responses 5) Implications of the…

Labor unrest continues in Gaziantep’s Başpınar Organized Industrial Zone, where workers are protesting a 30% wage increase imposed by their employers. They seek a salary that would ensure a dignified living standard. The movement is being spearheaded by Mehmet Türkmen, the chair of the United Textile, Weaving, and Leather Workers’ Union (BİRTEK-SEN), who has recently faced multiple detentions amid ongoing industrial action. Article Subheadings 1) Background of Union Activity and Resistance 2) The Journey of Mehmet Türkmen 3) Repeated Detentions and Legal Challenges 4) Solidarity Among Workers 5) The Future of Labor Movements in Turkey Background of Union Activity and…