Major cyber attack on Turkish Energy Ministry reported
ANKARA
Turkish Energy Ministry has been under a major cyber attack, Turkish media reported citing a senior source from the ministry. The report followed the major power outages in Istanbul that has been ongoing for three days.
More:Major cyber attack on Turkish Energy Ministry reported - ENERGY
Saturday, December 31, 2016
Friday, December 30, 2016
Flights canceled, roads locked due to snowfall, storms across Turkey - LOCAL
Flights canceled, roads locked due to snowfall, storms across Turkey
Heavy snowfall and storms across Turkey paralyzed ordinary life, blocking roads and leading to the cancellation of many domestic and international flights.
Turkish Airlines announced on Dec. 30 that it had cancelled a total of 258 scheduled flights due to bad weather conditions.
More:Flights canceled, roads locked due to snowfall, storms across Turkey - LOCAL
Heavy snowfall and storms across Turkey paralyzed ordinary life, blocking roads and leading to the cancellation of many domestic and international flights.
Turkish Airlines announced on Dec. 30 that it had cancelled a total of 258 scheduled flights due to bad weather conditions.
More:Flights canceled, roads locked due to snowfall, storms across Turkey - LOCAL
Turkey's Accused - WSJ.com
Turkey's Accused
Turkey's hunt for traitors after the failed July 15 coup has upended communities around the country and strained the rule of law. Arrests initially focused on military and security personnel. In the months since, tens of thousands of others, mainly teachers, have been caught in the crackdown. Among them were educators from Konya, a city in Turkey’s heartland.
More:Turkey's Accused - WSJ.com
Turkey's hunt for traitors after the failed July 15 coup has upended communities around the country and strained the rule of law. Arrests initially focused on military and security personnel. In the months since, tens of thousands of others, mainly teachers, have been caught in the crackdown. Among them were educators from Konya, a city in Turkey’s heartland.
More:Turkey's Accused - WSJ.com
Why breakfast is Turkey's most important meal of the new year
Why breakfast is Turkey's most important meal of the new year
Whether Islamist, nationalist, liberal or secularist, people in Turkey have one joy in common for their New Year's celebration: the legendary Turkish breakfast. On the first day of the year, all restaurants and cafes in main cities will be booked for breakfast. If you are in Istanbul and wish to get an ocean view table, you may have to wait awhile.
More:Why breakfast is Turkey's most important meal of the new year
Whether Islamist, nationalist, liberal or secularist, people in Turkey have one joy in common for their New Year's celebration: the legendary Turkish breakfast. On the first day of the year, all restaurants and cafes in main cities will be booked for breakfast. If you are in Istanbul and wish to get an ocean view table, you may have to wait awhile.
More:Why breakfast is Turkey's most important meal of the new year
Resilience in the face of adversity
Resilience in the face of adversity
The spotlight at the 59th Festival for Animation and Documentary Films in Leipzig was on Turkey. Numerous films and discussions showed how the cultural and film scene is coping with a country that is currently being torn apart by fierce social and political conflicts. By Madeleine Prahs
More:Resilience in the face of adversity
The spotlight at the 59th Festival for Animation and Documentary Films in Leipzig was on Turkey. Numerous films and discussions showed how the cultural and film scene is coping with a country that is currently being torn apart by fierce social and political conflicts. By Madeleine Prahs
More:Resilience in the face of adversity
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Turkey's Erdogan says Syrian ceasefire opportunity should not be wasted | Reuters
Turkey's Erdogan says Syrian ceasefire opportunity should not be wasted
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that the window of opportunity presented by the Syrian ceasefire should not be wasted.
More:Turkey's Erdogan says Syrian ceasefire opportunity should not be wasted | Reuters
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that the window of opportunity presented by the Syrian ceasefire should not be wasted.
More:Turkey's Erdogan says Syrian ceasefire opportunity should not be wasted | Reuters
This Turkish engineer is changing breast surgery as we know it
This Turkish engineer’s model helps doctors practice for breast surgery
Ozge Akbulut (screenshot, YouTube)
Producing unique models for doctors to practice breast surgery, Özge Akbulut pushes the frontiers of material science in a challenge to VR-simulated surgeries
More:This Turkish engineer is changing breast surgery as we know it
Ozge Akbulut (screenshot, YouTube)
Producing unique models for doctors to practice breast surgery, Özge Akbulut pushes the frontiers of material science in a challenge to VR-simulated surgeries
More:This Turkish engineer is changing breast surgery as we know it
Rebranding Turkey in 2017 - BARÇIN YİNANÇ
Rebranding Turkey in 2017
You take a weekend escape to a touristy European city to get away from the depressing mood in Turkey. In a fancy restaurant, you end up having a conversation with a British couple who say they have been to Antalya but not Istanbul.
More:Rebranding Turkey in 2017 - BARÇIN YİNANÇ
You take a weekend escape to a touristy European city to get away from the depressing mood in Turkey. In a fancy restaurant, you end up having a conversation with a British couple who say they have been to Antalya but not Istanbul.
More:Rebranding Turkey in 2017 - BARÇIN YİNANÇ
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
What chances for Turks seeking asylum in Germany? | Germany | DW.COM | 27.12.2016
What chances for Turks seeking asylum in Germany?
The number of Turkish asylum seekers in Germany increased in 2016. The German government, however, is not inclined to see this as a direct result of the failed coup attempt in Turkey.
More:What chances for Turks seeking asylum in Germany? | Germany | DW.COM | 27.12.2016
The number of Turkish asylum seekers in Germany increased in 2016. The German government, however, is not inclined to see this as a direct result of the failed coup attempt in Turkey.
More:What chances for Turks seeking asylum in Germany? | Germany | DW.COM | 27.12.2016
Turkey cuts Syria deal with Russia, confronts Western allies
Turkey cuts Syria deal with Russia, confronts Western allies
Turkey and Russia have reached an agreement for a country-wide cease-fire plan to end the conflict in Syria, Turkish and international news outlets reported Dec. 28. The plan, which would come into effect at midnight Dec. 29, imposes a cessation of hostilities on the armed opposition as well as forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. According to Turkey’s semi-official Anadolu Agency, groups that both Ankara and Moscow consider terrorist — meaning Jabhat Fatah al-Sham (formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra) and the Islamic State — will not be included in the cease-fire.
More:Turkey cuts Syria deal with Russia, confronts Western allies
Turkey and Russia have reached an agreement for a country-wide cease-fire plan to end the conflict in Syria, Turkish and international news outlets reported Dec. 28. The plan, which would come into effect at midnight Dec. 29, imposes a cessation of hostilities on the armed opposition as well as forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. According to Turkey’s semi-official Anadolu Agency, groups that both Ankara and Moscow consider terrorist — meaning Jabhat Fatah al-Sham (formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra) and the Islamic State — will not be included in the cease-fire.
More:Turkey cuts Syria deal with Russia, confronts Western allies
USA calls 'ludicrous' Turkey's claim it backs terror groups in Syria
USA calls 'ludicrous' Turkey's claim it backs terror groups in Syria
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday he had evidence the U.S.-led coalition supports terrorists in Syria, including ISIL and the Kurdish militant groups YPG and PYD.
More:USA calls 'ludicrous' Turkey's claim it backs terror groups in Syria
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday he had evidence the U.S.-led coalition supports terrorists in Syria, including ISIL and the Kurdish militant groups YPG and PYD.
More:USA calls 'ludicrous' Turkey's claim it backs terror groups in Syria
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Turkey: ′Worst country′ for media freedom in 2016 | Europe | DW.COM | 27.12.2016
Turkey: 'Worst country' for media freedom in 2016
Turkey jailed more journalists than any other country this year. According to the Turkish Journalists' Association, 148 journalists are currently imprisoned and many media outlets have been shut down.
More:Turkey: ′Worst country′ for media freedom in 2016 | Europe | DW.COM | 27.12.2016
Turkey jailed more journalists than any other country this year. According to the Turkish Journalists' Association, 148 journalists are currently imprisoned and many media outlets have been shut down.
More:Turkey: ′Worst country′ for media freedom in 2016 | Europe | DW.COM | 27.12.2016
First July 15 coup attempt case trial begins in Istanbul - CRIME
First July 15 coup attempt case trial begins in Istanbul
The first trial into Turkey’s July 15 coup attempt began in Istanbul on Dec. 27 amid tight security measures at a courthouse inside a prison complex that was once known as the venue for hearings in cases led by judges and prosecutors inside the Fethullah Gülen network.
More:First July 15 coup attempt case trial begins in Istanbul - CRIME
The first trial into Turkey’s July 15 coup attempt began in Istanbul on Dec. 27 amid tight security measures at a courthouse inside a prison complex that was once known as the venue for hearings in cases led by judges and prosecutors inside the Fethullah Gülen network.
More:First July 15 coup attempt case trial begins in Istanbul - CRIME
Turkish food giant says $400 mln stake sale is business, not political, decision - BUSINESS
Turkish food giant says $400 mln stake sale is business, not political, decision
Biscuit maker Ülker’s $400 million worth of stake sales to its British holding, Pladis, was a business decision and not motivated by Turkey’s domestic politics, Turkish food giant Yıldız Holding has said, Reuters reported on Dec. 26.
More:Turkish food giant says $400 mln stake sale is business, not political, decision - BUSINESS
Biscuit maker Ülker’s $400 million worth of stake sales to its British holding, Pladis, was a business decision and not motivated by Turkey’s domestic politics, Turkish food giant Yıldız Holding has said, Reuters reported on Dec. 26.
More:Turkish food giant says $400 mln stake sale is business, not political, decision - BUSINESS
Turkey's Erdogan Drops Bombshell Claim: 'Confirmed Evidence' US-Led Coalition Forces Supported ISIS
Turkey's Erdogan Drops Bombshell Claim: 'Confirmed Evidence' US-Led Coalition Forces Supported ISIS
By Jason Howerton
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday made the bombshell claim that he has “confirmed evidence” that U.S.-led coalition forces provided support to terrorist groups in Syria, including ISIS.
More:Turkey's Erdogan Drops Bombshell Claim: 'Confirmed Evidence' US-Led Coalition Forces Supported ISIS
By Jason Howerton
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday made the bombshell claim that he has “confirmed evidence” that U.S.-led coalition forces provided support to terrorist groups in Syria, including ISIS.
More:Turkey's Erdogan Drops Bombshell Claim: 'Confirmed Evidence' US-Led Coalition Forces Supported ISIS
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Turkey moves arms to Syrian border - The Blade
Turkey moves arms to Syrian border
BLOOMBERG NEWS
Published on Dec. 25, 2016
Turkey’s military deployed tanks and guns on the Syrian border as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged joint action with the Trump administration against Islamic State in its de facto capital, Raqqa.
More:Turkey moves arms to Syrian border - The Blade
BLOOMBERG NEWS
Published on Dec. 25, 2016
Turkey’s military deployed tanks and guns on the Syrian border as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged joint action with the Trump administration against Islamic State in its de facto capital, Raqqa.
More:Turkey moves arms to Syrian border - The Blade
Saturday, December 24, 2016
Goodbye Modern and Secular Turkey
Goodbye Modern and Secular Turkey
Welcome to Istanbul, said a veiled, smiling hostesses in the Ataturk Airport. The first advertisement I saw in the airport lounge displayed a brand of cloth over a veiled woman. Three men from Saudi Arabia with traditional Arabic clothes and long beards like Muslim religious preachers were entering the gate.
More:Goodbye Modern and Secular Turkey
Welcome to Istanbul, said a veiled, smiling hostesses in the Ataturk Airport. The first advertisement I saw in the airport lounge displayed a brand of cloth over a veiled woman. Three men from Saudi Arabia with traditional Arabic clothes and long beards like Muslim religious preachers were entering the gate.
More:Goodbye Modern and Secular Turkey
Friday, December 23, 2016
Erdogan’s policies have turned Turkey into an unsafe country
Erdogan’s policies have turned Turkey into an unsafe country
Jatin Desai
Published on December 24, 2016
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Turkey is different than that of late Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s. Kemal Ataturk was founder of Republic of Turkey and a hardcore secular. Now, with Erdogan in power, religiosity has increased. Secular laws are being changed. The result is visible. Various militant organisations are targeting capital Ankara, Istanbul and other cities with bombings.
More:Erdogan’s policies have turned Turkey into an unsafe country
Jatin Desai
Published on December 24, 2016
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Turkey is different than that of late Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s. Kemal Ataturk was founder of Republic of Turkey and a hardcore secular. Now, with Erdogan in power, religiosity has increased. Secular laws are being changed. The result is visible. Various militant organisations are targeting capital Ankara, Istanbul and other cities with bombings.
More:Erdogan’s policies have turned Turkey into an unsafe country
Thursday, December 22, 2016
In Search of a More Perfect Union With Turkey | Stratfor
In Search of a More Perfect Union With Turkey
Geopolitical Diary
December 21, 2016 | 22:56 GMT Text Size
For Turkey and the European Union, economic integration seems to happen more quickly than political integration does. Negotiations over the country's accession have made little progress since Turkey was declared an official candidate to join the European Union in 1999. By contrast, trade ties between the European Union and Turkey have flourished over the past two decades. The two have been party to a customs union since December 1995, though the agreement's foundation has been in place since the 1970s, and today, the European Union is Turkey's main trade partner. Even after months of mounting tension between Brussels and Ankara, their trade relationship seems more or less unfazed. On Wednesday, the EU Commission asked the governments of the Continental bloc for a mandate to start negotiations to update and expand the customs union. The request serves as a reminder that despite their differences, Turkey and the European Union are still willing to cooperate in some areas, and trade is a good place to start.
More:In Search of a More Perfect Union With Turkey | Stratfor
Geopolitical Diary
December 21, 2016 | 22:56 GMT Text Size
For Turkey and the European Union, economic integration seems to happen more quickly than political integration does. Negotiations over the country's accession have made little progress since Turkey was declared an official candidate to join the European Union in 1999. By contrast, trade ties between the European Union and Turkey have flourished over the past two decades. The two have been party to a customs union since December 1995, though the agreement's foundation has been in place since the 1970s, and today, the European Union is Turkey's main trade partner. Even after months of mounting tension between Brussels and Ankara, their trade relationship seems more or less unfazed. On Wednesday, the EU Commission asked the governments of the Continental bloc for a mandate to start negotiations to update and expand the customs union. The request serves as a reminder that despite their differences, Turkey and the European Union are still willing to cooperate in some areas, and trade is a good place to start.
More:In Search of a More Perfect Union With Turkey | Stratfor
Turkish electricity prices soar as gas supplies struggle to ...
Turkish electricity prices soar as gas supplies struggle to meet winter demand
by Reuters
Thursday, 22 December 2016 14:35 GMT
By Orhan Coskun and Humeyra Pamuk
ANKARA, Dec 22 (Reuters) - Turkey's electricity prices rose to their highest in years, as natural gas consumption soared due to higher household demand amid cold weather, forcing state pipeline operator Botas to cut supplies to power plants and advise industries to reduce output.
More:Turkish electricity prices soar as gas supplies struggle to ...
by Reuters
Thursday, 22 December 2016 14:35 GMT
By Orhan Coskun and Humeyra Pamuk
ANKARA, Dec 22 (Reuters) - Turkey's electricity prices rose to their highest in years, as natural gas consumption soared due to higher household demand amid cold weather, forcing state pipeline operator Botas to cut supplies to power plants and advise industries to reduce output.
More:Turkish electricity prices soar as gas supplies struggle to ...
EU looking to strengthen trade relations with Turkey - Rabobank
EU looking to strengthen trade relations with Turkey - Rabobank
By Sandeep Kanihama
Analysts at Rabobank notes that the EU is looking to strengthen trade relations with Turkey, which could use a boost to its economy.
More:EU looking to strengthen trade relations with Turkey - Rabobank
By Sandeep Kanihama
Analysts at Rabobank notes that the EU is looking to strengthen trade relations with Turkey, which could use a boost to its economy.
More:EU looking to strengthen trade relations with Turkey - Rabobank
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
An Extremely Vulnerable Turkey | The Cipher Brief
An Extremely Vulnerable Turkey
December 20, 2016 | Fritz Lodge and Mackenzie Weinger
One day after Russia's ambassador to Turkey was killed in Ankara, foreign ministers from the two countries met in Moscow to discuss the crisis in Syria — and to vow they will keep their delicate diplomatic relationship on track in the wake of Andrey Karlov's assassination.
More:An Extremely Vulnerable Turkey | The Cipher Brief
December 20, 2016 | Fritz Lodge and Mackenzie Weinger
One day after Russia's ambassador to Turkey was killed in Ankara, foreign ministers from the two countries met in Moscow to discuss the crisis in Syria — and to vow they will keep their delicate diplomatic relationship on track in the wake of Andrey Karlov's assassination.
More:An Extremely Vulnerable Turkey | The Cipher Brief
Letter from Ankara: 'Even by 2016 standards, Turkey has had an extraordinary 12 months' | London Evening Standard
Letter from Ankara: 'Even by 2016 standards, Turkey has had an extraordinary 12 months'
Rather than damaging relations between Turkey and Russia, the ambassador's murder may draw them closer
More:Letter from Ankara: 'Even by 2016 standards, Turkey has had an extraordinary 12 months' | London Evening Standard
Rather than damaging relations between Turkey and Russia, the ambassador's murder may draw them closer
More:Letter from Ankara: 'Even by 2016 standards, Turkey has had an extraordinary 12 months' | London Evening Standard
Turkey Recalls Hague Diplomat over Diaspora Spying Claims
Turkey Recalls Hague Diplomat over Diaspora Spying Claims
December 21, 2016 10:07 AM
Turkey has summoned home a senior diplomat who was accused of compiling a list of Dutch Turks who might have sympathized with July's failed coup, the Dutch government said on Wednesday.
More:Turkey Recalls Hague Diplomat over Diaspora Spying Claims
December 21, 2016 10:07 AM
Turkey has summoned home a senior diplomat who was accused of compiling a list of Dutch Turks who might have sympathized with July's failed coup, the Dutch government said on Wednesday.
More:Turkey Recalls Hague Diplomat over Diaspora Spying Claims
EU Wants to Upgrade Customs Arrangements With Turkey - ABC News
EU Wants to Upgrade Customs Arrangements With Turkey
By The Associated Press
BRUSSELS — Dec 21, 2016, 9:15 AM ET
The European Union wants to launch talks with Turkey to update their customs union, which at present only applies to goods.
More:EU Wants to Upgrade Customs Arrangements With Turkey - ABC News
By The Associated Press
BRUSSELS — Dec 21, 2016, 9:15 AM ET
The European Union wants to launch talks with Turkey to update their customs union, which at present only applies to goods.
More:EU Wants to Upgrade Customs Arrangements With Turkey - ABC News
Ambassador shooting: Russia pushes back on Turkey's Gulenist claim - CNN.com
Ambassador shooting: Russia pushes back on Turkey's Gulenist claim
By Jason Hanna and James Masters, CNN
(CNN)The Kremlin has pushed back against Turkey's allegations that a movement led by exiled cleric Fethullah Gulen was behind the assassination of Russia's ambassador to Ankara.
More:Ambassador shooting: Russia pushes back on Turkey's Gulenist claim - CNN.com
By Jason Hanna and James Masters, CNN
(CNN)The Kremlin has pushed back against Turkey's allegations that a movement led by exiled cleric Fethullah Gulen was behind the assassination of Russia's ambassador to Ankara.
More:Ambassador shooting: Russia pushes back on Turkey's Gulenist claim - CNN.com
Uh oh! we are so awfully shocked – again - BURAK BEKDİL
Uh oh! we are so awfully shocked – again
Who killed Andrey Karlov, the Russian ambassador to Ankara? Officially, the assassin is a young anti-riot police officer. According to the government narrative, he must be a pawn of the Gülenist terrorists who wanted to sabotage Turkey’s relations with Russia – just like the fighter jet pilots who shot down a Russian Su-24 on Nov. 24, 2015. This narrative is highly problematic. In reality, the Russian ambassador was the victim of an ugly sectarian war in this part of the world.
More:Uh oh! we are so awfully shocked – again - BURAK BEKDİL
Who killed Andrey Karlov, the Russian ambassador to Ankara? Officially, the assassin is a young anti-riot police officer. According to the government narrative, he must be a pawn of the Gülenist terrorists who wanted to sabotage Turkey’s relations with Russia – just like the fighter jet pilots who shot down a Russian Su-24 on Nov. 24, 2015. This narrative is highly problematic. In reality, the Russian ambassador was the victim of an ugly sectarian war in this part of the world.
More:Uh oh! we are so awfully shocked – again - BURAK BEKDİL
A Most Unsettling Year for Turkey - The Atlantic
A Most Unsettling Year for Turkey
The country continues to descend into uncertainty following the assassination of the Russian ambassador.
More:A Most Unsettling Year for Turkey - The Atlantic
The country continues to descend into uncertainty following the assassination of the Russian ambassador.
More:A Most Unsettling Year for Turkey - The Atlantic
D’Alema sees no EU integration for Turkey under Erdogan
D’Alema sees no EU integration for Turkey under Erdogan
ATHENS – A deal struck between the European Union and Ankara that seems to have put the refugee crisis under control should not compromise EU values and turn a blind eye to human right violations in Turkey, Massimo D’Alema, former prime minister of Italy and president of FEPS, said in Athens on December 19.
More:D’Alema sees no EU integration for Turkey under Erdogan
ATHENS – A deal struck between the European Union and Ankara that seems to have put the refugee crisis under control should not compromise EU values and turn a blind eye to human right violations in Turkey, Massimo D’Alema, former prime minister of Italy and president of FEPS, said in Athens on December 19.
More:D’Alema sees no EU integration for Turkey under Erdogan
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Is America’s goal the division of Turkey? – Middle East Monitor
Is America’s goal the division of Turkey?
Mohamed Zahed Gul
With the return of terrorist explosions to the streets of Turkey and the targeting of security officers and innocent civilians alike in Istanbul, there are suggestions that that someone is taking aim at the country’s security. The next target will be the Turkish economy via politic means. In short, the goal is clearly not just to kill security personnel and civilians, but the implementation of a plan targeting Turkey as a whole. The parties behind this plan make no distinction between the state and the government. The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) may be in charge but it is not really accepted by democratic states, and it is, after all, the people who elected the parliament, government and prime minister.
More:Is America’s goal the division of Turkey? – Middle East Monitor
Mohamed Zahed Gul
With the return of terrorist explosions to the streets of Turkey and the targeting of security officers and innocent civilians alike in Istanbul, there are suggestions that that someone is taking aim at the country’s security. The next target will be the Turkish economy via politic means. In short, the goal is clearly not just to kill security personnel and civilians, but the implementation of a plan targeting Turkey as a whole. The parties behind this plan make no distinction between the state and the government. The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) may be in charge but it is not really accepted by democratic states, and it is, after all, the people who elected the parliament, government and prime minister.
More:Is America’s goal the division of Turkey? – Middle East Monitor
Building a new Turkey: Erdogan's 'crazy projects', Middle East News & Top Stories - The Straits Times
Building a new Turkey: Erdogan's 'crazy projects'
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan boasts that no other Turkish leader has dared dream of his "crazy projects". Here is a run-down of the projects whose completion Mr Erdogan has overseen and those still in progress.
More:Building a new Turkey: Erdogan's 'crazy projects', Middle East News & Top Stories - The Straits Times
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan boasts that no other Turkish leader has dared dream of his "crazy projects". Here is a run-down of the projects whose completion Mr Erdogan has overseen and those still in progress.
More:Building a new Turkey: Erdogan's 'crazy projects', Middle East News & Top Stories - The Straits Times
EU seeks to appease Erdoğan with trade deal – POLITICO
EU seeks to appease Erdoğan with trade deal
Brussels hopes a deal will keep the Turkish president from ditching a refugee pact with Europe.
By Hans von der Burchard and Jacopo Barigazzi
12/20/16, 10:28 PM CET
Updated 12/20/16, 10:30 PM CET
The European Commission wants to upgrade economic ties with Turkey in the hopes that better trade relations will help soothe political tensions with Ankara.
More:EU seeks to appease Erdoğan with trade deal – POLITICO
Brussels hopes a deal will keep the Turkish president from ditching a refugee pact with Europe.
By Hans von der Burchard and Jacopo Barigazzi
12/20/16, 10:28 PM CET
Updated 12/20/16, 10:30 PM CET
The European Commission wants to upgrade economic ties with Turkey in the hopes that better trade relations will help soothe political tensions with Ankara.
More:EU seeks to appease Erdoğan with trade deal – POLITICO
The Chaos Candidate: Attacks Aid Erdogan Case for Strongman Rule - Bloomberg
The Chaos Candidate: Attacks Aid Erdogan Case for Strongman Rule
by Selcan Hacaoglu
and Firat Kozok
December 20, 2016, 5:00 PM EST
Violence may swing nationalists behind bid for greater powers
Emergency rule isn’t making Turks safer, opposition says
A bus carrying soldiers blown up in a central Turkish city on Saturday. Two days later, Russia’s ambassador shot dead in Ankara near the parliament building bombed by warplanes during July’s botched coup.
More:The Chaos Candidate: Attacks Aid Erdogan Case for Strongman Rule - Bloomberg
by Selcan Hacaoglu
and Firat Kozok
December 20, 2016, 5:00 PM EST
Violence may swing nationalists behind bid for greater powers
Emergency rule isn’t making Turks safer, opposition says
A bus carrying soldiers blown up in a central Turkish city on Saturday. Two days later, Russia’s ambassador shot dead in Ankara near the parliament building bombed by warplanes during July’s botched coup.
More:The Chaos Candidate: Attacks Aid Erdogan Case for Strongman Rule - Bloomberg
How Turkey used math to drastically boost its economy
How Turkey used math to drastically boost its economy
The Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK), an official agency attached to the prime minister’s office, had announced a while ago its intention to change the calculation method used to determine the country’s main economic indicators. The new method was to be based on ESA2010, the European Union’s accounting framework, to align with the way EU countries calculated their gross domestic product (GDP). With this explanation at hand, the planned change seemed necessary and reasonable.
More:How Turkey used math to drastically boost its economy
The Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK), an official agency attached to the prime minister’s office, had announced a while ago its intention to change the calculation method used to determine the country’s main economic indicators. The new method was to be based on ESA2010, the European Union’s accounting framework, to align with the way EU countries calculated their gross domestic product (GDP). With this explanation at hand, the planned change seemed necessary and reasonable.
More:How Turkey used math to drastically boost its economy
Turkey’s permanent state of crisis - The Washington Post
Turkey’s permanent state of crisis
By Soner Cagaptay December 20 at 11:43 AM
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is the most powerful person in Turkey in almost a century, rivaled only by Ataturk — the secular founder of the republic. Erdogan first assumed power as prime minister in 2003, and in 2014 he won elections to become president. After already having controlled Turkey for almost 14 years, Erdogan now wants to amend the Turkish constitution so that he can become head of state, head of government and head of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), amassing as much power as Ataturk once held.
More:Turkey’s permanent state of crisis - The Washington Post
By Soner Cagaptay December 20 at 11:43 AM
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is the most powerful person in Turkey in almost a century, rivaled only by Ataturk — the secular founder of the republic. Erdogan first assumed power as prime minister in 2003, and in 2014 he won elections to become president. After already having controlled Turkey for almost 14 years, Erdogan now wants to amend the Turkish constitution so that he can become head of state, head of government and head of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), amassing as much power as Ataturk once held.
More:Turkey’s permanent state of crisis - The Washington Post
Turkey blames usual suspects for murder of Russian ambassador
Turkey blames usual suspects for murder of Russian ambassador
Off-duty police officer Mevlut Mert Altintas assassinated Andrei Gennadyevich Karlov, Russia’s ambassador to Turkey, at an art gallery in the Turkish capital Ankara on Dec. 19. Police forces subsequently killed Altintas in a gunfight.
More:Turkey blames usual suspects for murder of Russian ambassador
Off-duty police officer Mevlut Mert Altintas assassinated Andrei Gennadyevich Karlov, Russia’s ambassador to Turkey, at an art gallery in the Turkish capital Ankara on Dec. 19. Police forces subsequently killed Altintas in a gunfight.
More:Turkey blames usual suspects for murder of Russian ambassador
US Embassy in Ankara 'closed' after 'shooting incident' | The Independent
US Embassy in Ankara 'closed' after 'shooting incident'
No one was harmed when an individual approached the embassy overnight and fired shots, but the diplomatic corps are on high alert following Monday's assassination of the Russian ambassador
More:US Embassy in Ankara 'closed' after 'shooting incident' | The Independent
No one was harmed when an individual approached the embassy overnight and fired shots, but the diplomatic corps are on high alert following Monday's assassination of the Russian ambassador
More:US Embassy in Ankara 'closed' after 'shooting incident' | The Independent
The Lines That Bind: 100 Years of Sykes-Picot - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy
The Lines That Bind:
100 Years of Sykes-Picot
Andrew J. Tabler, Editor
December 2016
Download PDF
A century after diplomats Mark Sykes of Britain and François Georges-Picot of France drew up a secret agreement to divide the Ottoman lands of the Middle East, a look at the modern map indicates the resulting states have largely stood the test of time -- at least thus far. Most of these states are now under considerable demographic, economic, and political stress, which has led some analysts to predict eventual collapse of at least some of them.
More:The Lines That Bind: 100 Years of Sykes-Picot - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy
100 Years of Sykes-Picot
Andrew J. Tabler, Editor
December 2016
Download PDF
A century after diplomats Mark Sykes of Britain and François Georges-Picot of France drew up a secret agreement to divide the Ottoman lands of the Middle East, a look at the modern map indicates the resulting states have largely stood the test of time -- at least thus far. Most of these states are now under considerable demographic, economic, and political stress, which has led some analysts to predict eventual collapse of at least some of them.
More:The Lines That Bind: 100 Years of Sykes-Picot - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy
Monday, December 19, 2016
Turkey's purge cuts military by a third -Council of Europe
Turkey's purge cuts military by a third -Council of Europe
by Reuters
Monday, 19 December 2016 14:14 GMT
By Robin Emmott
BRUSSELS, Dec 19 (Reuters) - Turkey's purge of its military since a botched coup in July has cut its armed forces by a third, the Council of Europe said on Monday, after NATO raised concerns that Turkey's response to the failed coup has worryingly thinned its forces.
More:Turkey's purge cuts military by a third -Council of Europe
by Reuters
Monday, 19 December 2016 14:14 GMT
By Robin Emmott
BRUSSELS, Dec 19 (Reuters) - Turkey's purge of its military since a botched coup in July has cut its armed forces by a third, the Council of Europe said on Monday, after NATO raised concerns that Turkey's response to the failed coup has worryingly thinned its forces.
More:Turkey's purge cuts military by a third -Council of Europe
Brexit Bulletin: Turkey for Brexit? - Bloomberg
Brexit Bulletin: Turkey for Brexit?
A week before Christmas, and Liam Fox is already talking Turkey.
by Simon Kennedy
December 19, 2016, 2:03 AM EST
It is Christmas week so of course we are all surrounded by talk of turkey.
But it’s Turkey the country that is occupying the minds of British government officials as they cast their eyes to leaving the European Union.
In his first major interview since taking office, Trade Secretary Liam Fox on Sunday echoed Brexit negotiator David Davis by floating Turkey’s relationship with the European Union as a potential model for the U.K.
More:Brexit Bulletin: Turkey for Brexit? - Bloomberg
A week before Christmas, and Liam Fox is already talking Turkey.
by Simon Kennedy
December 19, 2016, 2:03 AM EST
It is Christmas week so of course we are all surrounded by talk of turkey.
But it’s Turkey the country that is occupying the minds of British government officials as they cast their eyes to leaving the European Union.
In his first major interview since taking office, Trade Secretary Liam Fox on Sunday echoed Brexit negotiator David Davis by floating Turkey’s relationship with the European Union as a potential model for the U.K.
More:Brexit Bulletin: Turkey for Brexit? - Bloomberg
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Beethoven Prize awarded to Fazil Say | Music | DW.COM | 17.12.2016
Beethoven Prize awarded to Fazil Say
Once convicted of insulting Islam, the Turkish pianist and composer remains controversial in his homeland. In Bonn, he has now been recognized for his art of inclusion.
More:Beethoven Prize awarded to Fazil Say | Music | DW.COM | 17.12.2016
Once convicted of insulting Islam, the Turkish pianist and composer remains controversial in his homeland. In Bonn, he has now been recognized for his art of inclusion.
More:Beethoven Prize awarded to Fazil Say | Music | DW.COM | 17.12.2016
Friday, December 16, 2016
The PKK has shot itself - VERDA ÖZER
The PKK has shot itself
The tragic terrorist attack last Saturday in Istanbul was claimed by the outlawed Kurdistan Freedom Falcons (TAK), a subgroup responsible for organizing the suicide attacks of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). As such, the PKK is the true perpetrator.
More:The PKK has shot itself - VERDA ÖZER
The tragic terrorist attack last Saturday in Istanbul was claimed by the outlawed Kurdistan Freedom Falcons (TAK), a subgroup responsible for organizing the suicide attacks of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). As such, the PKK is the true perpetrator.
More:The PKK has shot itself - VERDA ÖZER
Turks Seek Gold More Than Liras in Response to Erdogan’s Call - Bloomberg
Turks Seek Gold More Than Liras in Response to Erdogan’s Call
by Constantine Courcoulas
December 16, 2016, 8:46 AM EST
Asked by their President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to shun the dollar, Turks are favoring gold over liras.
On the face of it, the appeal to defend the Turkish currency worked. It arrested the biggest three-week surge in foreign-currency deposits since August as Turks drew down a net $450 million from these accounts in the week ended Dec. 9. But residents also boosted their precious metal holdings, traditionally denominated in dollars, by $700 million, a hint that confidence in their currency remains tenuous, according to Nomura Inc.
More:Turks Seek Gold More Than Liras in Response to Erdogan’s Call - Bloomberg
by Constantine Courcoulas
December 16, 2016, 8:46 AM EST
Asked by their President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to shun the dollar, Turks are favoring gold over liras.
On the face of it, the appeal to defend the Turkish currency worked. It arrested the biggest three-week surge in foreign-currency deposits since August as Turks drew down a net $450 million from these accounts in the week ended Dec. 9. But residents also boosted their precious metal holdings, traditionally denominated in dollars, by $700 million, a hint that confidence in their currency remains tenuous, according to Nomura Inc.
More:Turks Seek Gold More Than Liras in Response to Erdogan’s Call - Bloomberg
Turkey threatens retaliation against Austria
Turkey threatens retaliation against Austria
Turkey hosts some 3 million refugees (Photo: European Parliament)
By Nikolaj Nielsen
BRUSSELS, Today, 09:15
Tensions continue to flare between Ankara and Vienna following Austria's bid, earlier this week, to formally block Turkey’s EU membership talks.
More:Turkey threatens retaliation against Austria
Turkey hosts some 3 million refugees (Photo: European Parliament)
By Nikolaj Nielsen
BRUSSELS, Today, 09:15
Tensions continue to flare between Ankara and Vienna following Austria's bid, earlier this week, to formally block Turkey’s EU membership talks.
More:Turkey threatens retaliation against Austria
Thursday, December 15, 2016
OPINION | Turkey’s Charles de Gaulle
OPINION | Turkey’s Charles de Gaulle
Turkey must be considered a country of change and its incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan can be considered as Turkey’s Charles de Gaulle. Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the biggest change that came about in its wake was the emergence of the modern Turkey. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk founded a new government and defined a new political structure for Turkey, which has managed to sway the real power up to the present time.
More:OPINION | Turkey’s Charles de Gaulle
Turkey must be considered a country of change and its incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan can be considered as Turkey’s Charles de Gaulle. Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the biggest change that came about in its wake was the emergence of the modern Turkey. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk founded a new government and defined a new political structure for Turkey, which has managed to sway the real power up to the present time.
More:OPINION | Turkey’s Charles de Gaulle
President Erdoğan calls for ‘national mobilization’ against terrorist organizations - POLITICS
President Erdoğan calls for ‘national mobilization’ against terrorist organizations
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called for a “national mobilization against all terrorist organizations” on Dec. 14 during a speech to neighborhood heads at the Presidential Palace in Ankara.
More:President Erdoğan calls for ‘national mobilization’ against terrorist organizations - POLITICS
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called for a “national mobilization against all terrorist organizations” on Dec. 14 during a speech to neighborhood heads at the Presidential Palace in Ankara.
More:President Erdoğan calls for ‘national mobilization’ against terrorist organizations - POLITICS
Turkey’s confused foreign policy leaves it facing ethical dilemmas - SEMİH İDİZ
Turkey’s confused foreign policy leaves it facing ethical dilemmas
President Recep Erdoğan spoke the truth when he said recently that Turkey is a European country. This may appear odd to those who predicate their outlook on religious factors. However, the geo-political geography that a country belongs to has to be considered from a much broader perspective.
More:Turkey’s confused foreign policy leaves it facing ethical dilemmas - SEMİH İDİZ
President Recep Erdoğan spoke the truth when he said recently that Turkey is a European country. This may appear odd to those who predicate their outlook on religious factors. However, the geo-political geography that a country belongs to has to be considered from a much broader perspective.
More:Turkey’s confused foreign policy leaves it facing ethical dilemmas - SEMİH İDİZ
‘Infidel!’ Ottoman slur raises hackles in Turkey | World | Malay Mail Online
‘Infidel!’ Ottoman slur raises hackles in Turkey
Thursday December 15, 2016
A Besiktas' supporters holds a Turkish national flag as she cheers prior to the Ziraat Turkish Cup football match between Besiktas and Kayserispor on December 14, 2016. — AFP pic A Besiktas' supporters holds a Turkish national flag as she cheers prior to the Ziraat Turkish Cup football match between Besiktas and Kayserispor on December 14, 2016. — AFP pic ISTANBUL, Dec 15 — The use by a senior Turkish official of a pejorative word meaning “infidel,” widely used in Ottoman times to describe non-Muslims, has sparked accusations of hate speech and fears of discrimination against minorities.
More:‘Infidel!’ Ottoman slur raises hackles in Turkey | World | Malay Mail Online
Thursday December 15, 2016
A Besiktas' supporters holds a Turkish national flag as she cheers prior to the Ziraat Turkish Cup football match between Besiktas and Kayserispor on December 14, 2016. — AFP pic A Besiktas' supporters holds a Turkish national flag as she cheers prior to the Ziraat Turkish Cup football match between Besiktas and Kayserispor on December 14, 2016. — AFP pic ISTANBUL, Dec 15 — The use by a senior Turkish official of a pejorative word meaning “infidel,” widely used in Ottoman times to describe non-Muslims, has sparked accusations of hate speech and fears of discrimination against minorities.
More:‘Infidel!’ Ottoman slur raises hackles in Turkey | World | Malay Mail Online
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
Special report: Peace is a no-go zone for artists in Turkey's state of emergency - IFEX
Special report: Peace is a no-go zone for artists in Turkey's state of emergency
Freedom of expression has been subject to serious violations in Turkey since the declaration of the state of emergency in July. As critical voices are silenced, pressures have especially intensified for Kurdish writers and artists who also work as teachers at public schools.
More:Special report: Peace is a no-go zone for artists in Turkey's state of emergency - IFEX
Freedom of expression has been subject to serious violations in Turkey since the declaration of the state of emergency in July. As critical voices are silenced, pressures have especially intensified for Kurdish writers and artists who also work as teachers at public schools.
More:Special report: Peace is a no-go zone for artists in Turkey's state of emergency - IFEX
Turkish Lira’s Big Fall | LeapRate
Turkish Lira’s Big Fall
December 14, 2016 —by
The Turkish lira has depreciated significantly against all of the G10 currencies, except the pound over the last 12 months.
More:Turkish Lira’s Big Fall | LeapRate
December 14, 2016 —by
The Turkish lira has depreciated significantly against all of the G10 currencies, except the pound over the last 12 months.
More:Turkish Lira’s Big Fall | LeapRate
Turkish-Dutch mosque leader accused of spying for Erdogan | NL Times
Turkish-Dutch mosque leader accused of spying for Erdogan
By Janene Pieters on December 14, 2016 - 09:43
The chairman of Turkish-Dutch mosque umbrella organization Diyanet collected names of people who sympathize with Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen and passed it on to the regime of Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the chairman himself admitted in an interview with the Telegraaf.
More:Turkish-Dutch mosque leader accused of spying for Erdogan | NL Times
By Janene Pieters on December 14, 2016 - 09:43
The chairman of Turkish-Dutch mosque umbrella organization Diyanet collected names of people who sympathize with Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen and passed it on to the regime of Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the chairman himself admitted in an interview with the Telegraaf.
More:Turkish-Dutch mosque leader accused of spying for Erdogan | NL Times
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
A new Turkey policy needed | TheHill
A new Turkey policy needed
By Robert Ellis - 12/13/16 08:30 PM EST
The report by a Washington think tank, the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), “Beyond the Myth of Partnership: Rethinking U.S. Policy Toward Turkey,” confirms that both the U.S. and Europe share a common disillusion about developments in Turkey.
More:A new Turkey policy needed | TheHill
By Robert Ellis - 12/13/16 08:30 PM EST
The report by a Washington think tank, the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), “Beyond the Myth of Partnership: Rethinking U.S. Policy Toward Turkey,” confirms that both the U.S. and Europe share a common disillusion about developments in Turkey.
More:A new Turkey policy needed | TheHill
Will Turkey Revive its Reform Agenda? « US Opinion and Commentary
Will Turkey Revive its Reform Agenda?
Posted December 13th, 2016
By Babak Yektafar
Istanbul’s well known Istiklal (independence) Street often provides a glimpse into the Turkish national mood. Through national celebrations and mourning, protests and counter-protests, nightlife and daily activities, this mostly pedestrian street, a vital artery in the city’s social and commercial life, offers an unofficial barometer to gauge the Turkish disposition.
More:Will Turkey Revive its Reform Agenda? « US Opinion and Commentary
Posted December 13th, 2016
By Babak Yektafar
Istanbul’s well known Istiklal (independence) Street often provides a glimpse into the Turkish national mood. Through national celebrations and mourning, protests and counter-protests, nightlife and daily activities, this mostly pedestrian street, a vital artery in the city’s social and commercial life, offers an unofficial barometer to gauge the Turkish disposition.
More:Will Turkey Revive its Reform Agenda? « US Opinion and Commentary
At a tipping point: a currency crisis roils Turkey's economy
At a tipping point: a currency crisis roils Turkey's economy
Elizabeth MacBride | @editoremacb
Turkey's $720 billion economy rebounded surprisingly quickly after the coup last summer, but that may be about to change as political turmoil grows, the lira drops and foreign direct investment dries up. This weekend, the country was roiled again by bomb attacks that killed 38 people and wounded 155 outside a soccer stadium in Istanbul.
More:At a tipping point: a currency crisis roils Turkey's economy
Elizabeth MacBride | @editoremacb
Turkey's $720 billion economy rebounded surprisingly quickly after the coup last summer, but that may be about to change as political turmoil grows, the lira drops and foreign direct investment dries up. This weekend, the country was roiled again by bomb attacks that killed 38 people and wounded 155 outside a soccer stadium in Istanbul.
More:At a tipping point: a currency crisis roils Turkey's economy
'Don't push Turkey away', says writer Elif Shafak
'Don't push Turkey away', says writer Elif Shafak
By Eric Maurice
BRUSSELS, Today, 17:15
Turkey is "sliding backwards" but the EU should not isolate it and should keep in contact with its civil society, Turkish author Elif Shafak has said.
More:'Don't push Turkey away', says writer Elif Shafak
By Eric Maurice
BRUSSELS, Today, 17:15
Turkey is "sliding backwards" but the EU should not isolate it and should keep in contact with its civil society, Turkish author Elif Shafak has said.
More:'Don't push Turkey away', says writer Elif Shafak
Turkish Opposition Finds Base in Germany - WSJ
Turkish Opposition Finds Base in Germany
BERLIN—With Berlin’s active encouragement, Germany is becoming a base for opponents of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, adding new strains to Turkey’s fraying relationship with Europe.
More:Turkish Opposition Finds Base in Germany - WSJ
BERLIN—With Berlin’s active encouragement, Germany is becoming a base for opponents of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, adding new strains to Turkey’s fraying relationship with Europe.
More:Turkish Opposition Finds Base in Germany - WSJ
Op-Ed: Europe to kick the can down the road in a bid to avert a fallout with Turkey
Op-Ed: Europe to kick the can down the road in a bid to avert a fallout with Turkey
Anthony Skinner, Director at Verisk Maplecroft
Chris McGrath | Getty Images | Getty Images News
European Union leaders are meeting in Brussels this week and on the agenda is what to do about candidate country Turkey. They gather as Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues his purge of suspected and real opponents.
More:Op-Ed: Europe to kick the can down the road in a bid to avert a fallout with Turkey
Anthony Skinner, Director at Verisk Maplecroft
Chris McGrath | Getty Images | Getty Images News
European Union leaders are meeting in Brussels this week and on the agenda is what to do about candidate country Turkey. They gather as Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues his purge of suspected and real opponents.
More:Op-Ed: Europe to kick the can down the road in a bid to avert a fallout with Turkey
MORNING BID EUROPE-Cold Turkey in Brussels
MORNING BID EUROPE-Cold Turkey in Brussels
by Reuters
Tuesday, 13 December 2016 08:31 GMT
LONDON, Dec 13 (Reuters) - Much of the buzz at today's meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels today will be about whether their future Washington counterpart will be an oilman from Texas. Donald Trump is expected to name Exxon-Mobil Corp's Rex Tillerson as his choice for secretary of state early US time on Tuesday, a nomination that will raise major questions in Europe about Tillerson's ties to Vladimir Putin's Russia. First up on the official agenda, however, is a bid led by Austria and the Netherlands to suspend talks with Turkey on its EU membership over the massive post-coup purge ordered by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. It is not clear that the two countries will get backing from other states to do so, especially as Turkey's help is needed to stem migrant inflows into Europe. But any accession hopes Ankara had been cherishing have long since dimmed anyway, as enlargement of the EU looks gradually to be coming to a halt. Now it looks as though attempts to revive Macedonia's stalled EU bid will face added questions after it emerged last night that veteran national leader Nikola Gruevski won this weekend's election. Brussels has long been a tough critic of Gruevski's record on safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.
More:MORNING BID EUROPE-Cold Turkey in Brussels
by Reuters
Tuesday, 13 December 2016 08:31 GMT
LONDON, Dec 13 (Reuters) - Much of the buzz at today's meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels today will be about whether their future Washington counterpart will be an oilman from Texas. Donald Trump is expected to name Exxon-Mobil Corp's Rex Tillerson as his choice for secretary of state early US time on Tuesday, a nomination that will raise major questions in Europe about Tillerson's ties to Vladimir Putin's Russia. First up on the official agenda, however, is a bid led by Austria and the Netherlands to suspend talks with Turkey on its EU membership over the massive post-coup purge ordered by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. It is not clear that the two countries will get backing from other states to do so, especially as Turkey's help is needed to stem migrant inflows into Europe. But any accession hopes Ankara had been cherishing have long since dimmed anyway, as enlargement of the EU looks gradually to be coming to a halt. Now it looks as though attempts to revive Macedonia's stalled EU bid will face added questions after it emerged last night that veteran national leader Nikola Gruevski won this weekend's election. Brussels has long been a tough critic of Gruevski's record on safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.
More:MORNING BID EUROPE-Cold Turkey in Brussels
Turkey Is World’s Leading Jailer of Journalists: CPJ
Turkey Is World’s Leading Jailer of Journalists: CPJ
By Lucy Westcott On 12/13/16 at 12:10 AM
The number of journalists imprisoned globally is at a 26-year high, and Turkey is leading an “unprecedented” crackdown on the media, according to a new report from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).
More:Turkey Is World’s Leading Jailer of Journalists: CPJ
By Lucy Westcott On 12/13/16 at 12:10 AM
The number of journalists imprisoned globally is at a 26-year high, and Turkey is leading an “unprecedented” crackdown on the media, according to a new report from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).
More:Turkey Is World’s Leading Jailer of Journalists: CPJ
Istanbul bombing: Why the PKK has turned to urban terrorism | Middle East Eye
Istanbul bombing: Why the PKK has turned to urban terrorism
#TurkeyAtWar
The military success of Ankara’s draconian crackdown on Kurdish militants has left the PKK with just about one sole remaining weapon
Two days later, the death toll from the double car bomb explosion outside Besiktas football stadium on Saturday may still be climbing. At the time of writing, it stands at 44, 30 of them police. Around 150 people are in hospital recovering from injuries from an explosion which was heard over much of the city of 15 million. “We thought it must be an earthquake,” one Istanbul resident told me.
More:Istanbul bombing: Why the PKK has turned to urban terrorism | Middle East Eye
#TurkeyAtWar
The military success of Ankara’s draconian crackdown on Kurdish militants has left the PKK with just about one sole remaining weapon
Two days later, the death toll from the double car bomb explosion outside Besiktas football stadium on Saturday may still be climbing. At the time of writing, it stands at 44, 30 of them police. Around 150 people are in hospital recovering from injuries from an explosion which was heard over much of the city of 15 million. “We thought it must be an earthquake,” one Istanbul resident told me.
More:Istanbul bombing: Why the PKK has turned to urban terrorism | Middle East Eye
Ankara escalating its war on terror | Middle East | DW.COM | 13.12.2016
Ankara escalating its war on terror
After a spate of attacks, the Turkish government is planning tougher action against the TAK, which has been targeting major cities. Terrorism experts are concerned about the escalation. Hilal Köylü reports from Ankara.
More:Ankara escalating its war on terror | Middle East | DW.COM | 13.12.2016
After a spate of attacks, the Turkish government is planning tougher action against the TAK, which has been targeting major cities. Terrorism experts are concerned about the escalation. Hilal Köylü reports from Ankara.
More:Ankara escalating its war on terror | Middle East | DW.COM | 13.12.2016
Istanbul Bombings: Kurds and Erdogan Playing Political Football - The Globalist
Istanbul Bombings: Kurds and Erdogan Playing Political Football
The Besiktas bombing raises important questions about counter-terrorism strategy and truth telling in Turkey.
More:Istanbul Bombings: Kurds and Erdogan Playing Political Football - The Globalist
The Besiktas bombing raises important questions about counter-terrorism strategy and truth telling in Turkey.
More:Istanbul Bombings: Kurds and Erdogan Playing Political Football - The Globalist
EU ministers shy away from halting Turkey accession talks | Reuters
EU ministers shy away from halting Turkey accession talks
By Gabriela Baczynska and Robert-Jan Bartunek | BRUSSELS
EU foreign ministers said on Tuesday the bloc would not push ahead with membership talks with Turkey but rejected calls by Austria and European lawmakers to freeze the process because of Ankara's security crackdown.
More:EU ministers shy away from halting Turkey accession talks | Reuters
By Gabriela Baczynska and Robert-Jan Bartunek | BRUSSELS
EU foreign ministers said on Tuesday the bloc would not push ahead with membership talks with Turkey but rejected calls by Austria and European lawmakers to freeze the process because of Ankara's security crackdown.
More:EU ministers shy away from halting Turkey accession talks | Reuters
Monday, December 12, 2016
‘It’s happening’: Maddow previews ‘explosive’ Newsweek story that hints at Turkey’s blackmail of Trump
‘It’s happening’: Maddow previews ‘explosive’ Newsweek story that hints at Turkey’s blackmail of Trump
Tom Boggioni
In a preview of a Newsweek article due to be released Tuesday morning, MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow explained that writer Kurt Eichenwald has uncovered evidence that President-elect Donald Trump may have already been compromised by a foreign leader holding the power to threaten his overseas holdings to gain a political advantage.
More:‘It’s happening’: Maddow previews ‘explosive’ Newsweek story that hints at Turkey’s blackmail of Trump
Tom Boggioni
In a preview of a Newsweek article due to be released Tuesday morning, MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow explained that writer Kurt Eichenwald has uncovered evidence that President-elect Donald Trump may have already been compromised by a foreign leader holding the power to threaten his overseas holdings to gain a political advantage.
More:‘It’s happening’: Maddow previews ‘explosive’ Newsweek story that hints at Turkey’s blackmail of Trump
What a Deadly Fire in a Turkish School Says About the Struggle to Educate Girls
What a Deadly Fire in a Turkish School Says About the Struggle to Educate Girls
By Pinar Ersoy On 12/12/16 at 3:39 PM
Turkey has been in mourning since late November when a fire rampaged through a girls’ dormitory in Aladag, a town of 18,000 in Adana province of southeast Turkey. Eleven students and one teacher were killed, cracking open a debate in Turkey about controversial approaches to educating girls in rural areas, and whether the government is doing enough to monitor religious groups who increasingly are educating them.
More:What a Deadly Fire in a Turkish School Says About the Struggle to Educate Girls
By Pinar Ersoy On 12/12/16 at 3:39 PM
Turkey has been in mourning since late November when a fire rampaged through a girls’ dormitory in Aladag, a town of 18,000 in Adana province of southeast Turkey. Eleven students and one teacher were killed, cracking open a debate in Turkey about controversial approaches to educating girls in rural areas, and whether the government is doing enough to monitor religious groups who increasingly are educating them.
More:What a Deadly Fire in a Turkish School Says About the Struggle to Educate Girls
Europe must see it has nothing to gain from the PKK - SEMİH İDİZ
Europe must see it has nothing to gain from the PKK
We have the usual slew of condemnations and condolences from Europe after the twin bombings in Istanbul by a group attached to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which left 36 policemen and eight ordinary citizens, almost all of them young people, dead and 155 injured.
More:Europe must see it has nothing to gain from the PKK - SEMİH İDİZ
We have the usual slew of condemnations and condolences from Europe after the twin bombings in Istanbul by a group attached to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which left 36 policemen and eight ordinary citizens, almost all of them young people, dead and 155 injured.
More:Europe must see it has nothing to gain from the PKK - SEMİH İDİZ
Erdogan’s war on the market economy
Erdogan’s war on the market economy
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s shift from a reformist to an authoritarian path has been accompanied by an insistent narrative that a “supreme mind” is behind Turkey’s woes. For Erdogan and his aides, the supreme mind is a foreign hand with an influential network inside Turkey that plans, orchestrates and triggers every crisis, unrest or setback in the country.
More:Erdogan’s war on the market economy
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s shift from a reformist to an authoritarian path has been accompanied by an insistent narrative that a “supreme mind” is behind Turkey’s woes. For Erdogan and his aides, the supreme mind is a foreign hand with an influential network inside Turkey that plans, orchestrates and triggers every crisis, unrest or setback in the country.
More:Erdogan’s war on the market economy
Turkey’s Impending Estrangement From the West - Carnegie Europe - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Turkey’s Impending Estrangement From the West
Posted by: Marc Pierini
Monday, December 12, 2016
Turkey’s leaders are heading toward a clear-cut divorce from the European Union, due to current domestic political trends in the country. This is a highly risky course.
More:Turkey’s Impending Estrangement From the West - Carnegie Europe - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Posted by: Marc Pierini
Monday, December 12, 2016
Turkey’s leaders are heading toward a clear-cut divorce from the European Union, due to current domestic political trends in the country. This is a highly risky course.
More:Turkey’s Impending Estrangement From the West - Carnegie Europe - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Turkey scrambles to cut its losses in Syria
Turkey scrambles to cut its losses in Syria
Amberin Zaman reports that “Turkey’s outsize ambitions in Syria lie in shreds as forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad press on to assert control over the rebel strongholds that remain in Aleppo.”
More:Turkey scrambles to cut its losses in Syria
Amberin Zaman reports that “Turkey’s outsize ambitions in Syria lie in shreds as forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad press on to assert control over the rebel strongholds that remain in Aleppo.”
More:Turkey scrambles to cut its losses in Syria
Dozens arrested in raids after Istanbul bombing as death toll increases to 44 | Fox News
Dozens arrested in raids after Istanbul bombing as death toll increases to 44
Published December 12, 2016 Associated Press
John Bolton on allegations that Russian hacking helped Trump
ISTANBUL – Police detained dozens of individuals linked to a Kurdish opposition party in country-wide raids, Turkish state media reported Monday.
The reports did not specify whether the individuals detained were suspected of involvement in a Saturday bombing that killed at least 44 people and wounded 155 others.
More:Dozens arrested in raids after Istanbul bombing as death toll increases to 44 | Fox News
Published December 12, 2016 Associated Press
John Bolton on allegations that Russian hacking helped Trump
ISTANBUL – Police detained dozens of individuals linked to a Kurdish opposition party in country-wide raids, Turkish state media reported Monday.
The reports did not specify whether the individuals detained were suspected of involvement in a Saturday bombing that killed at least 44 people and wounded 155 others.
More:Dozens arrested in raids after Istanbul bombing as death toll increases to 44 | Fox News
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Enough… - YUSUF KANLI
Enough...
Sunday,December 11 2016, Your time is 11:17:39 PM
When this article was written, the death toll of twin blasts in Istanbul was at 38 and the entire country was praying it would rise no higher. Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu had confessed in front of TV screens that he was having difficulty explaining to people in senior positions of government in other countries how Turkey had become a target of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), the “Fethullah Gülen Terror Organization” (FETÖ) and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).
More:Enough… - YUSUF KANLI
Sunday,December 11 2016, Your time is 11:17:39 PM
When this article was written, the death toll of twin blasts in Istanbul was at 38 and the entire country was praying it would rise no higher. Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu had confessed in front of TV screens that he was having difficulty explaining to people in senior positions of government in other countries how Turkey had become a target of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), the “Fethullah Gülen Terror Organization” (FETÖ) and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).
More:Enough… - YUSUF KANLI
How Can Turkey Stop the Cycle of Terrorism? - Fair Observer
How Can Turkey Stop the Cycle of Terrorism?
By Nathaniel Handy • December 11, 2016
Erdogan’s government must seek a political resolution to the deepening conflict in Turkey, which has no end in sight.
With the latest terrorist attack on Turkish soil—twin blasts close to the Besiktas football stadium in Istanbul that killed at least 38 people and injured many more—the inevitable focus will be on heightened security, an expectation of solidarity from global allies, and questions about how it was able to happen.
More:How Can Turkey Stop the Cycle of Terrorism? - Fair Observer
By Nathaniel Handy • December 11, 2016
Erdogan’s government must seek a political resolution to the deepening conflict in Turkey, which has no end in sight.
With the latest terrorist attack on Turkish soil—twin blasts close to the Besiktas football stadium in Istanbul that killed at least 38 people and injured many more—the inevitable focus will be on heightened security, an expectation of solidarity from global allies, and questions about how it was able to happen.
More:How Can Turkey Stop the Cycle of Terrorism? - Fair Observer
How Islamic Will Erdogan's Presidential System Be?
How Islamic Will Erdogan's Presidential System Be?
By Mustafa Akyol
AL Monitor
Posted 2016-12-11 18:45 GMT
With the recent political agreement between Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and its newfound ally, the Nationalist Action Party (MHP), Turkey is quite close to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's much-aspired presidential system. Most likely, the parliament will vote for a major constitutional amendment in early 2017. A subsequent referendum, probably in April or May, will give the people the final say. Nothing is certain, but given Erdogan's broad popularity, a "yes" vote in such a referendum seems likely.
More:How Islamic Will Erdogan's Presidential System Be?
By Mustafa Akyol
AL Monitor
Posted 2016-12-11 18:45 GMT
With the recent political agreement between Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and its newfound ally, the Nationalist Action Party (MHP), Turkey is quite close to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's much-aspired presidential system. Most likely, the parliament will vote for a major constitutional amendment in early 2017. A subsequent referendum, probably in April or May, will give the people the final say. Nothing is certain, but given Erdogan's broad popularity, a "yes" vote in such a referendum seems likely.
More:How Islamic Will Erdogan's Presidential System Be?
Reform is the only path to stability for Turkey
Reform is the only path to stability for Turkey
The bombings in Istanbul on Saturday are a horrific reminder that Turkey faces multiple dangers. Terrorism and economic weakness reinforce one another’s destructive power. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the country’s president, thinks autocracy and patriotism can restore stability. He is wrong.
More:Reform is the only path to stability for Turkey
The bombings in Istanbul on Saturday are a horrific reminder that Turkey faces multiple dangers. Terrorism and economic weakness reinforce one another’s destructive power. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the country’s president, thinks autocracy and patriotism can restore stability. He is wrong.
More:Reform is the only path to stability for Turkey
PKK-Linked Group TAK Claims Istanbul Bombing That Killed 38 - Bloomberg
PKK-Linked Group TAK Claims Istanbul Bombing That Killed 38
by Benjamin Harvey and Onur Ant
December 11, 2016 — 2:28 AM EST December 11, 2016 — 12:09 PM EST
Death toll in twin blasts climbs to 38; 155 still hospitalized
Attacks followed ruling party plan to boost Erdogan’s powers
A Kurdish militant group claimed responsibility for a pair of coordinated bombings in Istanbul that killed 38 people and wounded more than 150 on Saturday, vowing to continue acts of violence across Turkey.
More:PKK-Linked Group TAK Claims Istanbul Bombing That Killed 38 - Bloomberg
by Benjamin Harvey and Onur Ant
December 11, 2016 — 2:28 AM EST December 11, 2016 — 12:09 PM EST
Death toll in twin blasts climbs to 38; 155 still hospitalized
Attacks followed ruling party plan to boost Erdogan’s powers
A Kurdish militant group claimed responsibility for a pair of coordinated bombings in Istanbul that killed 38 people and wounded more than 150 on Saturday, vowing to continue acts of violence across Turkey.
More:PKK-Linked Group TAK Claims Istanbul Bombing That Killed 38 - Bloomberg
Turkey's Erdogan convenes security meeting after Istanbul attack: presidential sources | Reuters
Turkey's Erdogan convenes security meeting after Istanbul attack: presidential sources
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan convened a security meeting of government ministers and senior bureaucrats on Sunday, presidential sources said, a day after a twin bombing in Istanbul killed more than 30 people.
More:Turkey's Erdogan convenes security meeting after Istanbul attack: presidential sources | Reuters
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan convened a security meeting of government ministers and senior bureaucrats on Sunday, presidential sources said, a day after a twin bombing in Istanbul killed more than 30 people.
More:Turkey's Erdogan convenes security meeting after Istanbul attack: presidential sources | Reuters
38 dead and 155 wounded in twin bomb attack near Istanbul stadium | Fox News
38 dead and 155 wounded in twin bomb attack near Istanbul stadium
Published December 11, 2016 Associated Press
ISTANBUL – Turkey declared a national day of mourning Sunday after twin blasts in Istanbul killed 38 people and wounded 155 others near a soccer stadium — the latest large-scale assault to traumatize a nation confronting an array of security threats.
More:38 dead and 155 wounded in twin bomb attack near Istanbul stadium | Fox News
Published December 11, 2016 Associated Press
ISTANBUL – Turkey declared a national day of mourning Sunday after twin blasts in Istanbul killed 38 people and wounded 155 others near a soccer stadium — the latest large-scale assault to traumatize a nation confronting an array of security threats.
More:38 dead and 155 wounded in twin bomb attack near Istanbul stadium | Fox News
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Istanbul explosions: 29 killed, 166 wounded - CNN.com
Istanbul explosions: 29 killed, 166 wounded in twin blasts
By Arwa Damon and Ralph Ellis, CNN
Istanbul, Turkey (CNN)Twenty-nine people, mostly police officers, were killed and 166 wounded in Saturday's twin bombings in Istanbul, Turkish Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu said in a press conference Sunday.
More:Istanbul explosions: 29 killed, 166 wounded - CNN.com
By Arwa Damon and Ralph Ellis, CNN
Istanbul, Turkey (CNN)Twenty-nine people, mostly police officers, were killed and 166 wounded in Saturday's twin bombings in Istanbul, Turkish Interior Minister Süleyman Soylu said in a press conference Sunday.
More:Istanbul explosions: 29 killed, 166 wounded - CNN.com
Twin blasts hit football arena in Turkey's Istanbul | News | Al Jazeera
Twin blasts hit football arena in Turkey's Istanbul
At least 20 police officers reported hurt in the attack two hours after a football match at Besiktas Vodafone arena.
More:Twin blasts hit football arena in Turkey's Istanbul | News | Al Jazeera
At least 20 police officers reported hurt in the attack two hours after a football match at Besiktas Vodafone arena.
More:Twin blasts hit football arena in Turkey's Istanbul | News | Al Jazeera
Friday, December 09, 2016
The US’ ‘moderate Islam’ mistake - FİKRET BİLA
The US’ ‘moderate Islam’ mistake
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said, “We will stop racing to topple foreign regimes…” He continued, “Instead, our focus must be on defeating terrorism and destroying [the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant], and we will.”
More:The US’ ‘moderate Islam’ mistake - FİKRET BİLA
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said, “We will stop racing to topple foreign regimes…” He continued, “Instead, our focus must be on defeating terrorism and destroying [the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant], and we will.”
More:The US’ ‘moderate Islam’ mistake - FİKRET BİLA
Do more to boost ailing lira, Erdogan urges Turks | World | thenews.com.pk
Do more to boost ailing lira, Erdogan urges Turks
By AFP
December 09, 2016
ISTANBUL: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Turks on Friday to step up efforts to boost the Turkish lira by converting more foreign currency, as the campaign launched earlier this month showed only limited effect.
More:Do more to boost ailing lira, Erdogan urges Turks | World | thenews.com.pk
By AFP
December 09, 2016
ISTANBUL: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Turks on Friday to step up efforts to boost the Turkish lira by converting more foreign currency, as the campaign launched earlier this month showed only limited effect.
More:Do more to boost ailing lira, Erdogan urges Turks | World | thenews.com.pk
Turkey′s constitutional referendum to take place early next year | News | DW.COM | 09.12.2016
Turkey's constitutional referendum to take place early next year
The announcement comes amid a consolidation of power by President Erdogan. In the months following a failed coup, Turkey has also seen a widereaching crackdown on dissidents.
More:Turkey′s constitutional referendum to take place early next year | News | DW.COM | 09.12.2016
The announcement comes amid a consolidation of power by President Erdogan. In the months following a failed coup, Turkey has also seen a widereaching crackdown on dissidents.
More:Turkey′s constitutional referendum to take place early next year | News | DW.COM | 09.12.2016
Turkey Went 'Too Far' in Coup Response: Legal Experts - ABC News
Turkey Went 'Too Far' in Coup Response: Legal Experts
By The Associated Press
ISTANBUL — Dec 9, 2016, 9:54 AM ET
Council of Europe experts say Turkey went "too far" with emergency measures adopted following a failed July 15 coup attempt.
More:Turkey Went 'Too Far' in Coup Response: Legal Experts - ABC News
By The Associated Press
ISTANBUL — Dec 9, 2016, 9:54 AM ET
Council of Europe experts say Turkey went "too far" with emergency measures adopted following a failed July 15 coup attempt.
More:Turkey Went 'Too Far' in Coup Response: Legal Experts - ABC News
Thursday, December 08, 2016
Turkey to avoid foreign currency contracts unless absolutely necessary -PM | Reuters
Turkey to avoid foreign currency contracts unless "absolutely necessary" -PM
Dec 8 Turkish state institutions will avoid contracts in foreign currencies unless "absolutely necessary", Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Thursday, as the government looks to stem a slide in the lira currency.
More:Turkey to avoid foreign currency contracts unless absolutely necessary -PM | Reuters
Dec 8 Turkish state institutions will avoid contracts in foreign currencies unless "absolutely necessary", Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Thursday, as the government looks to stem a slide in the lira currency.
More:Turkey to avoid foreign currency contracts unless absolutely necessary -PM | Reuters
Turkey Maneuvers to Escape Its Dollar Trap | Stratfor
Turkey Maneuvers to Escape Its Dollar Trap
Geopolitical Diary
December 8, 2016 | 04:31 GMT Text Size
In Turkey, patriotism appears to be running deeper than profit motive. A number of major Turkish companies in the past few days have announced that they will heed President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's behest announced Friday to convert their U.S. dollars to lira. The switch may help to shore up the Turkish currency, but it does not make a great deal of purely commercial sense. The list of businesses so far supporting Erdogan's call by conducting some transactions in lira include the Defense Ministry's Industry Support Fund, Turkish Airlines and various telecom operators. The experiment, which has also involved Turkish citizens, has resulted in, at least during the past three days, a sharp reversal of fortune for the lira, which has strengthened against the dollar to end a monthslong streak of depreciation.
More:Turkey Maneuvers to Escape Its Dollar Trap | Stratfor
Geopolitical Diary
December 8, 2016 | 04:31 GMT Text Size
In Turkey, patriotism appears to be running deeper than profit motive. A number of major Turkish companies in the past few days have announced that they will heed President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's behest announced Friday to convert their U.S. dollars to lira. The switch may help to shore up the Turkish currency, but it does not make a great deal of purely commercial sense. The list of businesses so far supporting Erdogan's call by conducting some transactions in lira include the Defense Ministry's Industry Support Fund, Turkish Airlines and various telecom operators. The experiment, which has also involved Turkish citizens, has resulted in, at least during the past three days, a sharp reversal of fortune for the lira, which has strengthened against the dollar to end a monthslong streak of depreciation.
More:Turkey Maneuvers to Escape Its Dollar Trap | Stratfor
Turkey's economic crisis: Free kebabs, haircuts and gravestones | Middle East Eye
Turkey's economic crisis: Free kebabs, haircuts and gravestones
#TurkishPolitics
It's all a long way from the heady days of 2008, when Turkey’s economy was punching above its weight
More:Turkey's economic crisis: Free kebabs, haircuts and gravestones | Middle East Eye
#TurkishPolitics
It's all a long way from the heady days of 2008, when Turkey’s economy was punching above its weight
More:Turkey's economic crisis: Free kebabs, haircuts and gravestones | Middle East Eye
Is there still hope for Turkish democracy? - The Washington Post
Is there still hope for Turkish democracy?
By A.Kadir Yildirim and Marc Lynch December 8 at 5:00 AM
The night of July 15 marked a distinct moment in Turkish democratic history as hundreds of thousands of Turks took to the streets to defy a coup attempt. Yet only a few months later, Turkish police moved to detain scores of members of parliament from pro-Kurdish opposition party HDP. In the months since the failed coup, tens of thousands of academics, journalists and civil society activists have been purged from their jobs, with many imprisoned. The government’s war with the PKK has escalated dramatically. A new collection, based on a Project on Middle East Political Science workshop held in collaboration with Rice University’s Baker Institute that included more than a dozen scholars of Turkey, poses a sobering question: Do we now have conclusive evidence that Turkey should no longer be considered a democracy?
More:Is there still hope for Turkish democracy? - The Washington Post
By A.Kadir Yildirim and Marc Lynch December 8 at 5:00 AM
The night of July 15 marked a distinct moment in Turkish democratic history as hundreds of thousands of Turks took to the streets to defy a coup attempt. Yet only a few months later, Turkish police moved to detain scores of members of parliament from pro-Kurdish opposition party HDP. In the months since the failed coup, tens of thousands of academics, journalists and civil society activists have been purged from their jobs, with many imprisoned. The government’s war with the PKK has escalated dramatically. A new collection, based on a Project on Middle East Political Science workshop held in collaboration with Rice University’s Baker Institute that included more than a dozen scholars of Turkey, poses a sobering question: Do we now have conclusive evidence that Turkey should no longer be considered a democracy?
More:Is there still hope for Turkish democracy? - The Washington Post
Turkey to allow banks to restructure private sector loans -PM | Reuters
Turkey to allow banks to restructure private sector loans -PM
Dec 8 Turkey's banking regulator has agreed to allow banks to restructure loans to the private sector, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Thursday, as part of a number of government measures aimed at bolstering the economy.
More:Turkey to allow banks to restructure private sector loans -PM | Reuters
Dec 8 Turkey's banking regulator has agreed to allow banks to restructure loans to the private sector, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Thursday, as part of a number of government measures aimed at bolstering the economy.
More:Turkey to allow banks to restructure private sector loans -PM | Reuters
Wednesday, December 07, 2016
Turkey's shredded Syria policy
Turkey's shredded Syria policy
Turkey’s outsize ambitions in Syria lie in shreds as forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad press on to assert control over the rebel strongholds that remain in Aleppo. Ankara's long-running support for the rebels in the war-ravaged city has seemingly been reduced to appeals from Turkish rebel sympathizers on Twitter, with #HaleplcinAyaktayiz, “We Are Mobilized for Aleppo,” trending on the social media site.
More:Turkey's shredded Syria policy
Turkey’s outsize ambitions in Syria lie in shreds as forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad press on to assert control over the rebel strongholds that remain in Aleppo. Ankara's long-running support for the rebels in the war-ravaged city has seemingly been reduced to appeals from Turkish rebel sympathizers on Twitter, with #HaleplcinAyaktayiz, “We Are Mobilized for Aleppo,” trending on the social media site.
More:Turkey's shredded Syria policy
NATO Commander Says 150 Turkish Officers Gone Since Coup - ABC News
NATO Commander Says 150 Turkish Officers Gone Since Coup
By lorne cook, associated press
NATO's top military officer says that around 150 Turkish officers have been recalled or retired from the alliance's high command in response to the failed coup attempt in Turkey in July.
More:NATO Commander Says 150 Turkish Officers Gone Since Coup - ABC News
By lorne cook, associated press
NATO's top military officer says that around 150 Turkish officers have been recalled or retired from the alliance's high command in response to the failed coup attempt in Turkey in July.
More:NATO Commander Says 150 Turkish Officers Gone Since Coup - ABC News
RECEP TAYYIP ERDOĞAN – POLITICO
RECEP TAYYIP ERDOĞAN
THE OLD IRON FIST
TURKEY
Illustration by Denise Nestor for POLITICO
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is the most consequential Turkish leader since the founder of the republic, Kemal Atatürk. For much of his first decade-plus in power, Erdoğan had a shot at building a unique legacy: as the religious modernizer who showed Islam was compatible with democracy, built a Muslim tiger economy with Chinese-style growth, ended Turkey’s internal conflict with the Kurds and brought his nation into the heart of Europe.
More:RECEP TAYYIP ERDOĞAN – POLITICO
THE OLD IRON FIST
TURKEY
Illustration by Denise Nestor for POLITICO
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is the most consequential Turkish leader since the founder of the republic, Kemal Atatürk. For much of his first decade-plus in power, Erdoğan had a shot at building a unique legacy: as the religious modernizer who showed Islam was compatible with democracy, built a Muslim tiger economy with Chinese-style growth, ended Turkey’s internal conflict with the Kurds and brought his nation into the heart of Europe.
More:RECEP TAYYIP ERDOĞAN – POLITICO
Turks urged to trust in lira to defeat ‘tyranny of dollar’
Turks urged to trust in lira to defeat ‘tyranny of dollar’
Emerging markets face problem of rising US interest rates hammering currencies
More:Turks urged to trust in lira to defeat ‘tyranny of dollar’
Emerging markets face problem of rising US interest rates hammering currencies
More:Turks urged to trust in lira to defeat ‘tyranny of dollar’
Tuesday, December 06, 2016
Are Erdogan’s outbursts undermining Turkey’s interests?
Are Erdogan’s outbursts undermining Turkey’s interests?
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to learn the hard way that the international arena is not a place that will serve his political desires and ambitions. Yet he continues to come out with ill-considered outbursts that pose difficulties for Ankara at a time when it needs international support to overcome the difficulties it increasingly faces at home and abroad.
More:Are Erdogan’s outbursts undermining Turkey’s interests?
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to learn the hard way that the international arena is not a place that will serve his political desires and ambitions. Yet he continues to come out with ill-considered outbursts that pose difficulties for Ankara at a time when it needs international support to overcome the difficulties it increasingly faces at home and abroad.
More:Are Erdogan’s outbursts undermining Turkey’s interests?
US support for Kurds likely to continue under Trump administration - ARA News
US support for Kurds likely to continue under Trump administration
December 7, 2016
Erbil – The new Trump administration, which will be begin directing Washington’s new policies in two months, will most likely continue supporting the Kurds in both Iraq and Syria, according to analysts.
More:US support for Kurds likely to continue under Trump administration - ARA News
December 7, 2016
Erbil – The new Trump administration, which will be begin directing Washington’s new policies in two months, will most likely continue supporting the Kurds in both Iraq and Syria, according to analysts.
More:US support for Kurds likely to continue under Trump administration - ARA News
WikiLeaks dump casts rare light on Erdogan inner circle
WikiLeaks dump casts rare light on Erdogan inner circle
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan seems omnipotent, but few doubt that he is grooming Berat Albayrak as his successor. Foreign officials have described Albayrak to Al-Monitor as “Turkey’s most powerful man after Erdogan.” Some go as far as to suggest that he is already de facto running the country. Those who want to glean more about Albayrak, Turkey’s energy minister and Erdogan's son-in-law, can now sift through more than 57,000 emails supposedly associated with his personal email account that WikiLeaks released Dec. 6.
More:WikiLeaks dump casts rare light on Erdogan inner circle
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan seems omnipotent, but few doubt that he is grooming Berat Albayrak as his successor. Foreign officials have described Albayrak to Al-Monitor as “Turkey’s most powerful man after Erdogan.” Some go as far as to suggest that he is already de facto running the country. Those who want to glean more about Albayrak, Turkey’s energy minister and Erdogan's son-in-law, can now sift through more than 57,000 emails supposedly associated with his personal email account that WikiLeaks released Dec. 6.
More:WikiLeaks dump casts rare light on Erdogan inner circle
Turkey detains adviser to main opposition party chairman in post-coup probe - Hurriyet | Daily Mail Online
Turkey detains adviser to main opposition party chairman in post-coup probe - Hurriyet
By Reuters
ANKARA, Dec 6 (Reuters) - Turkish authorities on Tuesday detained an adviser to the head of the main opposition party over suspected links to the July coup, the Hurriyet newspaper said, the first time someone close to the senior ranks of the secular opposition has been targeted.
More:Turkey detains adviser to main opposition party chairman in post-coup probe - Hurriyet | Daily Mail Online
By Reuters
ANKARA, Dec 6 (Reuters) - Turkish authorities on Tuesday detained an adviser to the head of the main opposition party over suspected links to the July coup, the Hurriyet newspaper said, the first time someone close to the senior ranks of the secular opposition has been targeted.
More:Turkey detains adviser to main opposition party chairman in post-coup probe - Hurriyet | Daily Mail Online
Greek court agrees to extradite three Turkish officers | News | DW.COM | 06.12.2016
Greek court agrees to extradite three Turkish officers
A court in Athens has agreed to extradite three of the eight servicemen who fled Turkey for Greece after the failed July coup. On Monday, the court had rejected Turkey's extradition request for three others.
More:Greek court agrees to extradite three Turkish officers | News | DW.COM | 06.12.2016
A court in Athens has agreed to extradite three of the eight servicemen who fled Turkey for Greece after the failed July coup. On Monday, the court had rejected Turkey's extradition request for three others.
More:Greek court agrees to extradite three Turkish officers | News | DW.COM | 06.12.2016
Economists urge rate hike to stem Turkish lira sell-off | Business | DW.COM | 06.12.2016
Economists urge rate hike to stem Turkish lira sell-off
The Turkish government's attempt to launch state tenders in the lira currency and President Erdogan's call for Turks to sell foreign exchange will not be enough to shore up the tumbling currency, economists say.
More:Economists urge rate hike to stem Turkish lira sell-off | Business | DW.COM | 06.12.2016
The Turkish government's attempt to launch state tenders in the lira currency and President Erdogan's call for Turks to sell foreign exchange will not be enough to shore up the tumbling currency, economists say.
More:Economists urge rate hike to stem Turkish lira sell-off | Business | DW.COM | 06.12.2016
Monday, December 05, 2016
Turkey's 1st Rate Hike In Nearly 3 Years Fails To Stem Lira’s Losses | Investing.com
Turkey's 1st Rate Hike In Nearly 3 Years Fails To Stem Lira’s Losses
By Dr. Duru
Turkey’s central bank is in an awful bind. Turkey’s economy is getting squeezed at the same time its currency collapses. A little over a week ago the central bank chose what it thinks is the lesser of two evils and hiked interest rates in an attempt to support the Turkish lira.
More:Turkey's 1st Rate Hike In Nearly 3 Years Fails To Stem Lira’s Losses | Investing.com
By Dr. Duru
Turkey’s central bank is in an awful bind. Turkey’s economy is getting squeezed at the same time its currency collapses. A little over a week ago the central bank chose what it thinks is the lesser of two evils and hiked interest rates in an attempt to support the Turkish lira.
More:Turkey's 1st Rate Hike In Nearly 3 Years Fails To Stem Lira’s Losses | Investing.com
Turkish Hotels Cut Staff, Shut Down for Winter with Occupancy Lowest in Europe
Turkish Hotels Cut Staff, Shut Down for Winter with Occupancy Lowest in Europe
December 05, 2016 5:59 PM
Turkish hotels have cut staff by 40 percent, some have shuttered for the winter and others are struggling to pay back loans after a trying year when occupancy rates fell to the lowest in Europe, a report said Monday.
More:Turkish Hotels Cut Staff, Shut Down for Winter with Occupancy Lowest in Europe
December 05, 2016 5:59 PM
Turkish hotels have cut staff by 40 percent, some have shuttered for the winter and others are struggling to pay back loans after a trying year when occupancy rates fell to the lowest in Europe, a report said Monday.
More:Turkish Hotels Cut Staff, Shut Down for Winter with Occupancy Lowest in Europe
Greece grants asylum to three fugitive Turkish soldiers | TRT World
Greece grants asylum to three fugitive Turkish soldiers
A total of eight soldiers who were involved in the failed coup bid in Turkey had fled to Greece to seek asylum. All were charged with treason by Ankara who had requested them to be extradited to face trial.
More:Greece grants asylum to three fugitive Turkish soldiers | TRT World
A total of eight soldiers who were involved in the failed coup bid in Turkey had fled to Greece to seek asylum. All were charged with treason by Ankara who had requested them to be extradited to face trial.
More:Greece grants asylum to three fugitive Turkish soldiers | TRT World
Islamic State calls for attacks on Turkey, Turkish embassies | EUROPE ONLINE
Islamic State calls for attacks on Turkey, Turkish embassies
Europe
05.12.2016
By our dpa-correspondent and Europe Online auf Facebook posten Auf Twitter posten
Beirut (dpa) - An audio recording released in the name of the Islamic State extremist group Monday called for attacks on Turkey and on Turkish embassies and consulates worldwide.
More:Islamic State calls for attacks on Turkey, Turkish embassies | EUROPE ONLINE
Europe
05.12.2016
By our dpa-correspondent and Europe Online auf Facebook posten Auf Twitter posten
Beirut (dpa) - An audio recording released in the name of the Islamic State extremist group Monday called for attacks on Turkey and on Turkish embassies and consulates worldwide.
More:Islamic State calls for attacks on Turkey, Turkish embassies | EUROPE ONLINE
Sunday, December 04, 2016
Turkish mafia ‘ran fake US embassy’ in Ghana - AFRICA
Turkish mafia ‘ran fake US embassy’ in Ghana
Authorities in Ghana busted a fake U.S. embassy in the capital Accra run by a criminal network that for a decade issued illegally obtained authentic visas, the U.S. State Department said.
More:Turkish mafia ‘ran fake US embassy’ in Ghana - AFRICA
Authorities in Ghana busted a fake U.S. embassy in the capital Accra run by a criminal network that for a decade issued illegally obtained authentic visas, the U.S. State Department said.
More:Turkish mafia ‘ran fake US embassy’ in Ghana - AFRICA
Turkey’s economic crises - NURAY MERT
Turkey’s economic crises
I should be the last person to write on economic matters, since it is neither my profession nor my passion. Nevertheless, none of us need to be experts nowadays to see that the prospects for Turkey’s economy are rather dim.
More:Turkey’s economic crises - NURAY MERT
I should be the last person to write on economic matters, since it is neither my profession nor my passion. Nevertheless, none of us need to be experts nowadays to see that the prospects for Turkey’s economy are rather dim.
More:Turkey’s economic crises - NURAY MERT
Erdogan wants Turkey's trade with Iran, Russia, China in local currencies | Middle East Eye
Erdogan wants Turkey's trade with Iran, Russia, China in local currencies
#TurkishPolitics
Turkey's lira has lost fifth of its value this year, hit by resurgent dollar, widening concern about crackdown after 15 July failed coup
More:Erdogan wants Turkey's trade with Iran, Russia, China in local currencies | Middle East Eye
#TurkishPolitics
Turkey's lira has lost fifth of its value this year, hit by resurgent dollar, widening concern about crackdown after 15 July failed coup
More:Erdogan wants Turkey's trade with Iran, Russia, China in local currencies | Middle East Eye
Saturday, December 03, 2016
Erdogan Says Turkey Faces ‘Economic Sabotage’ as Lira Plunges - Bloomberg
Erdogan Says Turkey Faces ‘Economic Sabotage’ as Lira Plunges
by Selcan Hacaoglu
December 3, 2016 — 10:43 AM EST
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said his political enemies are trying to sabotage the economy by speculating on the stock market, foreign exchange rate and interest rates after failing to overthrow his administration in July.
More:Erdogan Says Turkey Faces ‘Economic Sabotage’ as Lira Plunges - Bloomberg
by Selcan Hacaoglu
December 3, 2016 — 10:43 AM EST
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said his political enemies are trying to sabotage the economy by speculating on the stock market, foreign exchange rate and interest rates after failing to overthrow his administration in July.
More:Erdogan Says Turkey Faces ‘Economic Sabotage’ as Lira Plunges - Bloomberg
The Turkey conundrum - The Blade
The Turkey conundrum
Published on Dec. 3, 2016
The European Parliament voted Nov. 24 to suspend accession negotiations with Turkey. These have been ongoing for 29 years, but have been kept from completion — and Turkish membership in the European Union — by the hurdles the E.U. has in place for Turkey to cross. The E.U. needs Turkish labor, and also could be well-served by Turkey as an E.U. member as a bridge between it and Muslim countries to the east in Asia. At the same time, there is resistance among some E.U. members to the idea of a large, predominantly Muslim state being added to the E.U., comprised largely of states that consider themselves Christian.
More:The Turkey conundrum - The Blade
Published on Dec. 3, 2016
The European Parliament voted Nov. 24 to suspend accession negotiations with Turkey. These have been ongoing for 29 years, but have been kept from completion — and Turkish membership in the European Union — by the hurdles the E.U. has in place for Turkey to cross. The E.U. needs Turkish labor, and also could be well-served by Turkey as an E.U. member as a bridge between it and Muslim countries to the east in Asia. At the same time, there is resistance among some E.U. members to the idea of a large, predominantly Muslim state being added to the E.U., comprised largely of states that consider themselves Christian.
More:The Turkey conundrum - The Blade
Friday, December 02, 2016
Turkey dollar bonds at multi-year lows after sharp lira fall | Reuters
Turkey dollar bonds at multi-year lows after sharp lira fall
Dec 2 Turkey's dollar-bonds fell across the curve on Friday with some longer-dated issues tumbling more than two cents to multi-year lows after the lira plumbed new record lows.
More:Turkey dollar bonds at multi-year lows after sharp lira fall | Reuters
Dec 2 Turkey's dollar-bonds fell across the curve on Friday with some longer-dated issues tumbling more than two cents to multi-year lows after the lira plumbed new record lows.
More:Turkey dollar bonds at multi-year lows after sharp lira fall | Reuters
How Germans experience life in Erdogan′s Turkey | Europe | DW.COM | 02.12.2016
How Germans experience life in Erdogan's Turkey
Some 50,000 Germans live as permanent residents in Turkey. They are currently witnessing the enormous political change in their chosen home - and aren't sure how to feel about it.
More:How Germans experience life in Erdogan′s Turkey | Europe | DW.COM | 02.12.2016
Some 50,000 Germans live as permanent residents in Turkey. They are currently witnessing the enormous political change in their chosen home - and aren't sure how to feel about it.
More:How Germans experience life in Erdogan′s Turkey | Europe | DW.COM | 02.12.2016
Cypriot leaders agree to resume reunification talks | News | DW.COM | 02.12.2016
Cypriot leaders agree to resume reunification talks
Turkish and Greek Cypriot leaders have agreed to resume UN-backed talks next month to reunite the ethnically divided island. The key issues of territory and security remain the final major sticking points.
More:Cypriot leaders agree to resume reunification talks | News | DW.COM | 02.12.2016
Turkish and Greek Cypriot leaders have agreed to resume UN-backed talks next month to reunite the ethnically divided island. The key issues of territory and security remain the final major sticking points.
More:Cypriot leaders agree to resume reunification talks | News | DW.COM | 02.12.2016
Thursday, December 01, 2016
The West must stop hiding from truth about Turkey’s coup – EurActiv.com
The West must stop hiding from truth about Turkey’s coup
By Daniel Kawczynski
Our 9/11. That is how many Turks see the failed 15 July coup d’état, writes Daniel Kawczynski. But it’s not a sentiment that resonates in the United Kingdom, Washington, Berlin or Brussels.
More:The West must stop hiding from truth about Turkey’s coup – EurActiv.com
By Daniel Kawczynski
Our 9/11. That is how many Turks see the failed 15 July coup d’état, writes Daniel Kawczynski. But it’s not a sentiment that resonates in the United Kingdom, Washington, Berlin or Brussels.
More:The West must stop hiding from truth about Turkey’s coup – EurActiv.com
Why Aleppo’s fall will be a game-changer for Turkey
Why Aleppo’s fall will be a game-changer for Turkey
Soon after the insurgency in Syria got underway, Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan revealed his sensitivity about Aleppo for the first time. Around midnight on March 29, 2011, we were on board his aircraft flying back to Turkey from his visit to Iraq. Erdogan had made history as the first Turkish prime minister to pay an official visit to the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).
More:Why Aleppo’s fall will be a game-changer for Turkey
Soon after the insurgency in Syria got underway, Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan revealed his sensitivity about Aleppo for the first time. Around midnight on March 29, 2011, we were on board his aircraft flying back to Turkey from his visit to Iraq. Erdogan had made history as the first Turkish prime minister to pay an official visit to the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).
More:Why Aleppo’s fall will be a game-changer for Turkey
Bill expanding Erdogan s power goes to parliament next week - Yahoo7
Bill to boost Erdogan's power heads to Turkey parliament
AFP on December 2, 2016, 2:07 am
Ankara (AFP) - A bill expanding Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's power will be submitted to parliament next week, just months after he survived a coup attempt that led to a massive crackdown on his opponents.
More:Bill expanding Erdogan s power goes to parliament next week - Yahoo7
AFP on December 2, 2016, 2:07 am
Ankara (AFP) - A bill expanding Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's power will be submitted to parliament next week, just months after he survived a coup attempt that led to a massive crackdown on his opponents.
More:Bill expanding Erdogan s power goes to parliament next week - Yahoo7
Turkey needs to be ‘normalized’ - YUSUF KANLI
Turkey needs to be ‘normalized’
Turkey was pulled into a nightmarish situation with the failed July 15 coup attempt. How the coup evolved, why Turkey’s well-fed intelligence services could not gather information, take adequate measures and prevent the calamity the country was condemned to still remain a mystery. How all those failed top security agents and executives have retained their posts is yet another mystery from those days. Turkey has definitely always been a peculiar country but is even more so today.
More:Turkey needs to be ‘normalized’ - YUSUF KANLI
Turkey was pulled into a nightmarish situation with the failed July 15 coup attempt. How the coup evolved, why Turkey’s well-fed intelligence services could not gather information, take adequate measures and prevent the calamity the country was condemned to still remain a mystery. How all those failed top security agents and executives have retained their posts is yet another mystery from those days. Turkey has definitely always been a peculiar country but is even more so today.
More:Turkey needs to be ‘normalized’ - YUSUF KANLI
Dutch join push for EU-Turkey accession talks freeze: diplomats | Reuters
Dutch join push for EU-Turkey accession talks freeze: diplomats
By Alastair Macdonald and Gabriela Baczynska | BRUSSELS
The Dutch government has lent its weight to calls for the EU to freeze Turkey's membership talks, diplomats said on Thursday, raising the prospect of European leaders making such a move at a summit in two weeks.
More:Dutch join push for EU-Turkey accession talks freeze: diplomats | Reuters
By Alastair Macdonald and Gabriela Baczynska | BRUSSELS
The Dutch government has lent its weight to calls for the EU to freeze Turkey's membership talks, diplomats said on Thursday, raising the prospect of European leaders making such a move at a summit in two weeks.
More:Dutch join push for EU-Turkey accession talks freeze: diplomats | Reuters