Author: Hafza Girdap

Publisher: Advocates of Silenced Turkey

Published: 2024-01-03

Total Pages: 88

ISBN-13:

From 2016 to 2023, in the midst of the human rights crisis, numerous individuals fell victim to grief, stress, and illness. As of November 2023, we have documented 952 casualties attributed to the state of emergency (OHAL) and decree laws (KHK), which include 90 children. This encompasses suspicious deaths in prisons, those who took their own lives, and those who lost their lives while trying to flee Turkey across the Meric and Aegean, encountering denial to return to their home countries. The numerous state-sanctioned human rights abuses in Turkey are too extensive to enumerate. AST engages in a range of activities, from organizing conferences and panels to writing reports submitted to relevant organizations and committees. Collaborating with other organizations is crucial for sharing causes, learning from others' stories, and amplifying our own narratives. In response to the pandemic and global crises, AST has adapted its strategies, incorporating virtual protests, panels, and written works, including reports and books. Survivor interviews are shared through books, providing a platform for the voices of those persecuted. AST encourages people to write letters to decision-makers and focuses on youth empowerment, recognizing the significant role young advocates play. Collaboration between youth and adults is essential in all aspects of our activities, including the use of art and music to advocate for human rights. In 2024, AST remains committed to being the voice of the voiceless, defending fundamental rights, educating and motivating human rights advocates, urging leaders to prioritize human rights, and convening groups for collaborative action. Let us unite in the fight against violence, inequality, and injustice. Through solidarity and political unity, we can amplify our strength, break down prejudices, and work towards a world free from violence and injustice. Thank you for being part of this crucial cause. AST GIVES A VOICE TO THE VOICELESS The Advocates of Silenced Turkey (AST) are committed to combating human rights abuses and injustices within Turkey. AST consists not only of legal experts but also includes relatives of political prisoners and victims who have faced job loss, property confiscation, and the loss of family members under the current oppressive administration. AST actively participates in various human rights initiatives, which encompass the creation of reports submitted to relevant committees, councils, and entities. AST organizes conferences, documents all forms of violence and injustice experienced by the Turkish people, arranges exhibitions, produces documentaries, and hosts art competitions. Committed to advancing democracy and human rights in Turkey, AST is dedicated to expanding its efforts in raising awareness and advocating for the cause.