Observers Comment on Turkey’s Local Elections
In the aftermath of Turkey’s local elections, international observers have weighed in on the electoral process. The Council of Europe’s monitoring team has acknowledged the competitive nature of the elections, which saw a significant win for the opposition against President Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling AK Party (AKP). This outcome has been interpreted as a potential shift in Turkey’s political scene, which has been dominated by Erdogan and the AKP for over two decades.
David Eray, leading the observation mission, praised the high voter turnout and the orderly conduct of the election day, highlighting the Turkish citizens’ dedication to democratic practices. However, the mission also pointed out that the elections occurred within a “starkly polarised environment,” which could impede the full realization of local democracy.
Vladimir Prebilic, deputy head of the delegation, expressed concerns that despite the options available to voters, there are still significant issues that need to be addressed to align with the Council of Europe’s standards for democracy, rule of law, and human rights. He emphasized the necessity for a political and media landscape that supports genuine freedom of expression and operates under an independent judiciary.
The observers noted that some media coverage leading up to the elections was heavily biased, with pro-government outlets predominantly featuring Erdogan’s rallies while limiting exposure to opposition campaigns. This has raised questions about the fairness and balance in information dissemination during critical electoral periods.
The observation mission consisted of 26 individuals from 16 European countries who monitored over 140 polling stations, including those in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara. Their insights provide an external perspective on Turkey’s electoral process and highlight areas where improvements are necessary to foster a more inclusive and democratic society.
