It has been reported that 54 people, including 4 journalists, were detained during the recent operations against the Peoples’ Democratic Congress (HDK*) in Turkey. Of those detained, 35 have been arrested by court order, and alarming projections suggest that the total number of detentions across Turkey could reach 6,000 in the coming days, according to the leaked information to the press.
We strongly condemn these actions, which represent yet another attack on the left forces, democratic values, freedom of expression, and the right to political organization. The systematic repression of opposition voices is a clear violation of fundamental human rights.
The HDK, as a broad and inclusive platform advocating for social justice, equality, and peace, plays a crucial role in Turkey’s political landscape. Silencing such voices not only undermines democracy but also deepens the polarization and injustice within society.
We unite our voices with all those demanding that the Turkish government immediately ceases these oppressive measures against Kurdish people and left forces, releases all political detainees, and respects democratic rights, including the freedom of expression and association.
We also urge the labor and social movements internationally to hold the Turkish government accountable for its human rights violations and to stand in solidarity with those fighting for democracy and justice.
The attack on democratic rights that we see taking place on all continents, is not something accidental. It is a reflection of the reactionary and rotten character of capitalism in our epoch. Our solidarity is with all those who continue to struggle for socialism, liberation, equality and democracy in Turkey.
*HDK is an umbrella organization that includes trade unions, associations, and political parties. The biggest political force inside it is the Peoples’ Democratic Party (Halkların Demokratik Partisi, HDP) which is the party mainly of the Kurdish movement, in which some of the socialist parties also participate.
