July 20, 2016

On July 15 2016, a fraction within the Turkish Armed Forces had attempted to perform a coup d’etat.

The junta behind the attempt was apparently directed by the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO)- a group classified as a terrorist organization within the Turkish National Security Policy Document. In response to the coup attempt, the Turkish public rushed to the streets. Thousands of people protested and reclaimed their democratic will. Tanks, helicopters, and F16 jets were utilized. The junta recklessly targeted the civilians regardless of their age, gender and socio-cultural background. For the first time in its history, the Turkish Parliament had been hit by F-16 fighter jets. In addition to this, the presidency, the hotel in which the Turkish President was residing in at the time, the National Intelligence Service Headquarters, the Special Forces Unit, various municipality police headquarters and municipality councils were also hit as well. The horrendous coup attempt resulted in 290 civilian deaths and another 1535 injured.

As academics, intellectuals and researchers, we stand by the courageous Turkish people who have been out on the streets to protect their democratic will. We also support the Turkish state in its struggle against coup attempt.