Turkey's Birthday Revelers Dispersed With Tear Gas
A peaceful celebration in Turkey was marred by barricades and tear gas, reports Tulin Davoglu. While the many non-governmental organizations that applied to gather before parliament were denied permits, the event in no way provoked security forces to violence, she writes.
The first “spring” in a majority-Muslim population came 89 years ago in Turkey. As the successor to the Ottomans, the young Turkish republic rose from the heartland of the Empire with an exceptional geography, positioned strategically among Europe, the Caucasus and the Middle East.
Now, 89 years later, despite a vibrant economy and regional clout, Turkey is being threatened by chaos in its neighborhood. But what’s even more critical is the polarization inside the country.