This article is dedicated to a dear friend whose identity must remain concealed due to genuine fears of repercussions. Recently, he lost his father to a heart attack in Turkey and was unable to return home to say farewell. Having left Turkey over a decade ago, he remains confined to exile. My heartfelt condolences go out to him, and may the soul of his father rest in peace.
Since the failed coup attempt in July 2016, Turkey has experienced significant political turmoil, with sweeping purges disproportionately affecting supporters of the Gülen Movement, commonly associated with exiled cleric Fethullah Gülen, as well as the Nusret Movement. The ramifications of these actions have led to alarming levels of social, economic, and personal suffering for many individuals both within Turkey and abroad. This article delves into the dire circumstances faced by those sympathetic to Nusret and Gülen, emphasising the urgent need for international attention and humanitarian support.
The Political Landscape Post-Coup
The attempted coup instigated a fierce crackdown by the Turkish government, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan labelling the Gülen Movement as a terrorist organisation responsible for orchestrating the coup. This declaration initiated a campaign of mass arrests, dismissals from public employment, and restrictions on education and political engagement. Those identified as followers of Gülen or the Nusret Movement have been particularly vulnerable, with the government utilising various means to isolate and marginalise them.
Social Embarrassment and Public Stigmatisation
Supporters of the Gülen and Nusret Movements have faced extreme social stigma since the coup, often branded as traitors or terrorists. This societal ostracism manifests in numerous ways; friends and family members may sever ties out of fear, and even those who express sympathy can face backlash. The media, largely controlled by the state, perpetuates negative narratives surrounding these groups, leading to further victimisation and public embarrassment for individuals associated with them.
One pertinent example is that of İsmail Yıldırım, a teacher in Turkey who openly supported the Gülen Movement but found himself shunned by former colleagues and neighbours after the coup. His social standing deteriorated rapidly, which has resulted in profound loneliness and depression, illustrating the deep psychological toll such social ostracism can impose.
Torture and Imprisonment
Among the most harrowing consequences of the government’s post-coup crackdown are reports of torture and inhumane conditions in Turkish prisons. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have documented numerous cases of mistreatment, including physical beatings, psychological torture, and denial of basic human rights. Many individuals affiliated with the Gülen and Nusret Movements have been subjected to arbitrary detention, with little hope for legal recourse or fair trials.
One striking case is that of Fatma Demir, a nurse accused of links to the Gülen Movement. She was detained for over a year without trial, during which she reportedly endured severe mistreatment. Fatma’s story is far from unique, as countless others have found themselves trapped in a brutal system that disregards due process and human rights.
Economic Deprivation and Victimisation
The economic ramifications of being associated with the Gülen and Nusret Movements have been equally devastating. The government has systematically targeted businesses owned by members or sympathisers, leading to widespread economic deprivation. Many have lost their livelihoods due to arbitrary closures, government seizures, or public campaigns urging consumers to boycott their enterprises.
For instance, the once-thriving business of Hasan Cetin, a restaurant owner in Istanbul, collapsed after state allegations linked him to the Gülen Movement. Despite his innocence, he struggled to support his family, unable to secure loans or permits to operate legally. This economic disenfranchisement exacerbates the psychological and social challenges faced by these individuals, creating a cycle of suffering that is difficult to escape.
Exile and the Plight of the Diaspora
The plight of Gülen and Nusret sympathisers extends beyond Turkey’s borders. Many individuals have sought refuge in foreign countries, but this transition has not been seamless. Exiles face a myriad of challenges, including legal difficulties in obtaining asylum, renewing international passports, and securing legal employment.
One particularly tragic consequence is the inability of expatriates to return to Turkey to attend the funerals of deceased loved ones. Deniz Arslan, a nurse living in Germany, is one such individual who lost her mother in Turkey but could not return due to the risks associated with her political beliefs. Denied the opportunity to say farewell, Deniz has highlighted the emotional anguish and isolation that accompany life in exile. Many exiled individuals report living in a constant state of anxiety as they remain cut off from their homeland and community connections.
Personal Experiences in Nigeria
From my own experiences with members of the Nusret Movement in Nigeria, I can attest that they are far removed from the terrorist label that has been unjustly imposed upon them. Their humanitarian efforts within the Nigerian community are remarkable. Recently, I had the privilege of sharing Ramadan packages with needy recipients at the National Mosque in Abuja, an initiative organised by these dedicated individuals. Their commitment to assisting the poor and vulnerable extends further to philanthropic services for orphanages and impoverished families, making a significant difference in the lives of many.
Moreover, the Nusret Movement has played a vital role in fostering inter-religious peace and harmony in Nigeria through the UFUK Dialogue organisation, where Muslims and Christians converge for interfaith discussions. These gatherings promote mutual understanding and cooperation among followers of different faiths. Their educational institutions exemplify inclusiveness, operating schools that do not discriminate based on faith or gender. Additionally, their medical facilities provide superlative healthcare services, while their university, now wholly Nigerian, is a testament to their commitment to the future of education. The Nusret Movement’s efforts in Nigeria showcase the blessing of their presence, reinforcing that they are not terrorists but rather compassionate individuals dedicated to serving humanity.
The Call for International Attention
The situation faced by supporters of the Nusret and Gülen Movements is dire, and as they grapple with an oppressive regime, their plight requires urgent international attention. Governments and organisations around the world must acknowledge that these individuals are not terrorists; on the contrary, they are victims of state-sponsored persecution. Reports consistently detail the failure of Turkish authorities to substantiate claims linking Gülen and his followers with terrorism, undermining the validity of the government’s narrative.
In the face of these realities, it is imperative for the international community, including humanitarian organisations and the United Nations, to take action. Advocacy for the rights of these individuals should be prioritised, and diplomatic pressure must be applied to hold the Turkish government accountable for its human rights violations. Furthermore, nations must work together to provide safe havens for those fleeing persecution, ensuring they have access to protection and resources to rebuild their lives.
Conclusion
As Turkey continues to navigate the consequences of its failed coup, the ongoing persecution of those sympathetic to the Nusret and Gülen Movements serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of human rights in times of political upheaval. The social, economic, and personal struggles faced by these individuals highlight the urgent need for intervention. By calling attention to their plight and advocating for their rights, the international community can help ensure that they are not forgotten in the shadows of history.
In doing so, we affirm our commitment to justice and humanity, recognising that the fight for basic rights is a universal struggle—one that should never be overlooked, regardless of political circumstances. As we reflect on the ongoing crises unfolding across the globe, let us stand in solidarity with those who seek justice and recognition and work collectively toward a world where freedom and dignity are afforded to all.
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