In a solidarity event organized at the call of ODTÜ (Middle East Technical University) alumni living in Hamburg, Germany, messages of support were given for comedian Deniz Göktaş, who was arrested in Turkey. At the protest held on Mönckebergstraße, emphasis was placed on freedom of expression, the rule of law, and the protection of democratic rights.
The event, organized under the leadership of ODTÜ/METU Alumni Netzwerk Hamburg and the "Displaced Internal Forces" initiative, was also supported by various non-governmental organizations, democratic mass organizations, and political party representatives.
Emphasis on Freedom of Expression in the Heart of Hamburg
At the demonstration held on Mönckebergstraße, one of the city's busiest shopping and pedestrian streets, attention was drawn not only to Deniz Göktaş's situation but also to the importance of protecting freedom of thought and expression for democratic societies.
Participants, through the banners they carried and the slogans they chanted, expressed that humor, art, and critical thinking must be freely expressed.
"They Cannot Silence Our Joy and Our Voice"
The message "They will not steal our joy. Come, let's support Deniz Göktaş within the scope of freedom of expression.", which was part of the call made before the event, became the common discourse of the demonstration.
In the speeches, it was stated that the silencing of humor is not only pressure against artists but also directly affects the freedom of expression of society.
Participants, carrying placards that read "Let Deniz Göktaş Be Released", called for adherence to the universal principles of law.
The Role of Humor in a Democratic Society Was Highlighted
Speakers at the event stated that Deniz Göktaş's stand-up performances could not be evaluated solely as stage performances after the recent developments.
In the speeches, it was emphasized that humor is an important area where people can generate common thoughts, develop a critical perspective, and breathe freely. It was also stated that the ability to criticize politicians and those who wield public power is one of the fundamental elements of freedom of expression in democratic societies.
Call for the Rule of Law and Independent Judiciary
In the assessments made throughout the protest, it was stated that depriving individuals of their freedom before the completion of the legal process raises discussions regarding the principles of the rule of law.
Participants pointed out that the independent and impartial functioning of justice is of great importance not only for the protection of individual rights but also for the democratic future of society.
The statements also indicated that practices limiting freedom of expression can harm the democratic structure, and emphasized the importance of people with different views coming together on common democratic values.
Message of International Solidarity
At the demonstration in Hamburg, calls were made for the guarantee of freedom of expression in Turkey, for the independent judiciary to operate in accordance with universal legal principles, and for Deniz Göktaş to be set free.
Participants stated that the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms is not merely an internal issue of a country but a shared responsibility for universal human rights.
Following the event, which concluded with applause and freedom slogans, ODTÜ alumni issued a written statement thanking all individuals and organizations who participated in and supported the solidarity demonstration.
News and Photos: Ali Akdemir
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