Today I received photos of journalistic protests in Turkey. Journalists in Istanbul and Ankara gathered, covered their mouths in black strap and broke pencils in protest.
Seven journalists have been arrested in an alleged plot to overthrow the Turkish government. Overall the number of arrested journalists in Turkey has reached 65.
My Turkish friends tell me that the Ergenekon investigation, which has been going on for 2 years, was originally launched against coup conspirators, but has in fact become an instrument of quelling dissenters.
New protests are expecting in the following days, I am told.
I wish Europe could speak with a stronger voice, but I realize that press freedom is a big problem today in several EU countries, including the one assuming the rotating presidency of the Union.
I also frequently hear opinions that Turkey is the living example that Islam and democracy are not incompatible. The message appears to be of special importance since the winds of change stated blowing in the Arab world.
But it is no secret that democracy standards in Turkey are on the decline.
Apparently, the democratic surge in the Arab world is taking place against the background of Europe and Turkey’s democratic backsliding.
