REGULATORY · MARKET STRUCTURE · TURKEY

Turkey: Will Erdogan release his biggest rival from jail?

DW 17 Nov 2025 · 1:00 AM
Change
Kurdish politician Selahattin Demirtas remains imprisoned, but recent court rulings may lead to his release, igniting hope among supporters for Kurdish rights in Turkey.
Turkey: Will Erdogan release his biggest rival from jail?
Why it matters
Selahattin Demirtas, leader of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP), has been jailed in Turkey since 2016 after being charged with terrorism-related offenses. His 42-year prison sentence has faced international scrutiny, with the European Court of Human Rights condemning his trial as politically motivated. Recently, Turkish President Erdogan indicated a willingness to comply with the court's ruling, which has sparked hope among Demirtas' supporters for his potential release. Demirtas has been a significant figure in Turkish politics, advocating for Kurdish rights and engaging with various political groups. Despite his imprisonment, he remains a popular figure among Kurdish voters, who view him as a symbol of their identity and rights. The evolving political climate in Turkey, including a recent rapprochement between the government and Kurdish groups, may provide an opportunity for Demirtas to play a role in future peace processes.
Source

Read full article on DW →

Topics

World & Politics Governance Conflicts

Decision-grade intelligence

Be prepared — without the noise

Calm, decision-grade intelligence that flags material changes before they become social knowledge—so you can update assumptions, not chase headlines.

Delivered by email. Pro memeber get real-time access and the full archive.

No cadence. Only material change.