Tur Abdin Coordination Committee highlights Municipal Elections in Turkey

TUR ABDIN, Turkey —  The Tur Abdin Coordination Committee which includes the European Syriac Union (ESU), Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), German-based Association of Middle East Christian Support, Syriac Commission in Germany, Kano Syriac Foundation, Central Federation of Assyrian Associations in Germany, published a statement on the Municipal Elections in Turkey.

“The political, economic and social changes positively and negatively affect the Syriac (Aramean-Chaldean-Assyrian) people. Although the Syriac community in Europe and diaspora has become large, they are linked to their land of ancestors. Their hopes and love for the land of Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia) have not been shaken,” read the Commission statement.

The Commission highlighted the violations, including killing cases, that are not investigated in Turkey, which played a role in Syriac people migration, adding that Syriac people have always demanded justice through diplomatic, dialogue and democracy.

The Commission pointed out that the parliamentary and presidential elections held on 14 and 28 May, 2023 were conducted on the basis of violence, and created an uncomfortable atmosphere for society and Syriac people in particular. The elections shook society’s confidence in Turkey’s democracy.

However, the Municipal Elections gave a great impetus to the peoples of Turkey. They were signals for a new stage in Turkey’s history.

During the elections, the people took a stand against injustice, tyranny, violence and unilateralism.

The Commission pointed out that in the regions where the freedom of practicing Syriac rites and traditions continues, there is a great responsibility on Mayors and Councils members in neighborhoods and villages to serve the people and secure their needs.

“The peoples of Turkey and the Middle East urgently need peace, democracy and life. The feelings of Syriac people have been broken and have become a deep wound in their hearts. There is no way to heal that wound except by applying advanced progressive values. Therefore, we call on all parties to build a democratic system that ensures the strengthening and development of peace, equality and freedom of belief,” the statement declared.

The Commission concluded by congratulating and wishing success for Mayors and Council Members who were elected in all Turkish regions, including Tur Abdin.