At the solidarity demonstration organized at the call of METU alumni living in Hamburg, Germany, messages of support were given for comedian Deniz Göktaş, who was arrested in Turkey. At the protest held in Mönckebergstraße, emphasis was placed on freedom of expression, the rule of law, and the protection of democratic rights.
Various civil society organizations, democratic mass organizations, and political party representatives also participated in and supported the event organized under the leadership of ODTÜ/METU Alumni Netzwerk Hamburg and the "Internal Forces Cast Out" initiative.
Emphasis on Freedom of Expression in the Heart of Hamburg
At the demonstration held in 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, with the banners they carried and the slogans they chanted, expressed that humor, art, and critical thought must be expressed freely.
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"They Cannot Silence Our Joy and Our Voice"
The message included in the call made before the event, "They won't steal our joy. Let's support Deniz Göktaş within the scope of freedom of expression," became the common slogan of the action.
In the speeches, it was stated that silencing humor is not only a pressure on artists but also directly affects society's freedom of expression.
Participants, carrying placards reading "Release Deniz Göktaş," called for adherence to the universal principles of law.
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Attention Drawn to the Role of Humor in Democratic Society
Speakers at the action stated that Deniz Göktaş's stand-up shows could not be regarded merely 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 critical perspectives, and breathe freely. It was also stated that the ability to criticize politicians and those who exercise public power in democratic societies is one of the fundamental elements of freedom of expression.
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Call for Rule of Law and Independent Judiciary
In the assessments made throughout the protest, it was stated that depriving individuals of their freedom before the judicial process is completed causes debates in terms of 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 noted that practices restricting freedom of expression could harm the democratic structure, emphasizing the importance of people with different views meeting on common democratic values.
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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 regain his freedom.
Participants stated that the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms is not only an internal matter for one country but also a shared responsibility of universal human rights.
After the event, which concluded with applause and freedom slogans, METU 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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