Recap radio

Bilge Yeşil, a professor of media culture at the College of Staten Island, City University of New York and an affiliate faculty of Middle Eastern Studies at the CUNY Graduate Center, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss media and communication strategies in Turkey.Yeşil lays out how Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s administration presents itself as a benevolent global actor and “voice of the voiceless” that pushes back on Western hypocrisy through a network of state-funded media institutions and pro-government news channels.The talk deconstructs the way Ankara seeks to frame narratives with the use of “strategic obfuscation”, which presents Erdoğan’s administration in a positive light for domestic and global audiences. Also included are leadership changes at the Directorate of Communications, new digital media trends and how both impact government communication strategies.Referenced in this talk:Talking Back to the West: How Turkey Uses Counter-Hegemony to Reshape the Global Communication Order (University of Illinois)Turkey enters the global media stage with TRT World (TRT World)Türkiye leads Muslim nations in addressing Islamophobia (TRT World)Fahrettin Altun sacked as Türkiye’s comms director in major overhaul (Türkiye Today)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Henri J. Barkey, adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the SDF’s territorial losses this weekend and the possible implications for Turkey’s PKK peace talks.The podcast covers security concerns for the US and Israel, the potential fate of Islamic State prisoners in Syria plus future prospects for the Kurdish rights movement, both armed and unarmed.Barkey is also the author of the book, Turkey’s Kurdish Question, and the Bernard L. and Bertha F. Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University.Referenced in this talk:Syrian Government and Kurdish-Led Force Agree to Merge After Clashes (NYT - gift)Terms of the Ceasefire and Integration Agreement between Syria and SDF (SANA)Syria tightens grip after Kurdish pullback, says IS prisoners escape (Reuters)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Author and journalist Kaya Genç joins Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to talk about what it means to report and write about Turkey in 2026 amid the latest wave of repression on government opponents, cultural figures and free speech, in general.The discussion covers censorship and the ethical quandaries reporters must navigate to perform their jobs. Genç also reflects on the responsibility of intellectuals in periods of democratic backsliding and what drives him to continue documenting the people and spaces that exist despite it all.Genç has been a professional journalist for about 20 years. His recent books include Şehir and The Lion and the Nightingale: A Journey Through Modern Turkey.Referenced in this talk:The Turkish government’s grip on journalism is tightening (Index on Censorship)Under the Shadow: Rage and Revolution in Modern Turkey (Bloomsbury)Peace be the promise (Eurozine)The people who clean up your TikTok feed are starting to fight back (Rest of World)Istanbul Biennial ends early following curator departure (The Art Newspaper)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

To kick off the new year, Özgür Ünlühisarcıklı, the US German Marshall Fund’s managing director of south and wider Europe as well as regional director for Turkey, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s foreign policy in 2026.The talk starts with Turkey-Venezuela relations in the aftermath of the US capture of Venezuelan Pres. Nicolás Maduro, and then moves counterclockwise around the globe, covering Ankara’s interests in North Africa, the Middle East, Eurasia, Europe and the US.Throughout, Turkish concerns and objectives are outlined in multiple conflicts, regions and nations, including Libya, the Israel-Gaza war, Somalia, Syria, Iraq, Iran, the Caucasus, the Ukraine-Russia war and more.Referenced in this talk:Turkey’s policy towards Libya: a year of major shifts (OSW)Pro-Palestine march draws over half a million people to Istanbul’s Galata Bridge on New Year’s Day (AA)One step forward, one step back – a year of the Turkish–Kurdish peace process (OSW)The Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process and the Role of Turkey (SUITS)US envoy hopes F-35 talks with Türkiye yield ‘breakthrough’ in coming months (AA)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Daria Isachenko, an associate at the Centre for Applied Turkey Studies in the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Ankara’s growing political and commercial ties with Central Asia.The talk covers initial outreach efforts in the 1990s, in which Turkey was seen as a “door opener” for Europe to regional actors, such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.Also discussed is Eurasian energy politics amid the Russia-Urkaine war, the purpose of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and the Middle Corridor, which relies on a planned transit connection through Armenia and Azerbaijan, known as the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, or the Zangezur corridor.Also referenced in this talk:Turkey’s Turns to Central Asia: Learning by Doing (CATS Network)First EU-Central Asia summit, 4 April 2025 (Consilium)EU signs deal with Azerbaijan to double gas imports by 2027 (Reuters)Understanding Central Asia’s Position on Northern Cyprus: Between Principles, Pressures, and Pragmatism (Hague Research)The Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process and the Role of Turkey (SUITS)UN marks first World Turkic Language Family Day (UN News)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Karolina Wanda Olszowska, president and co-founder of the Institute for Turkey Studies, and Karol Wasilewski, head of the Turkey, Caucasus and Central Asia Department at the Centre for Eastern Studies (OSW), joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to outline Russian disinformation strategies in Turkish media.The talk comes as EU leaders meet to discuss the future of the Ukraine-Russia war and focuses on coordinated efforts to spread pro-Russian talking points in Turkey and beyond.We discussed traditional and online media strategies intended to heighten anti-Western sentiments in Turkey, especially in Sputnik Türkiye. We also cover efforts to disseminate anti-Poland narratives in attempt to discredit Warsaw’s stance on the Ukraine war in Turkey and, again, beyond.Also referenced in this talk:EU starts crucial week with Zelenskyy talks and bid to save €210B loan (Politico)Russian Disinformation in Turkey (Disinfoinmenat)‘Unprecedented’ Violation and ‘Alleged’ Evidence: An Analysis of Narrative Lines in Türkiye Following the Drone Attack on Poland (Disinfoinmenat)U.K. Spy Chief Warns of Acute Russia Threat: The ‘Frontline is Everywhere’ (NYT)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

László Szerencsés, a postdoctoral researcher at the Stockholm University Institute for Turkish Studies (SUITS), joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to review the state of Turkey-Hungary ties.The conversation comes after Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán met with Turkish Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Istanbul Monday, Dec. 8. We cover the basis of bilateral ties, from pragmatic energy connectivity to civilizational rhetoric on shared Turkic heritage.Additionally, we discussed Turkey and Hungary’s role in both NATO and the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), as well as future prospects for the bilateral cooperation as Hungary heads into 2026 elections.Also referenced in this talk:Turkey to guarantee flow of Russian gas to Hungary, Orban says (Reuters)Viktor Orbán begins ‘anti-war roadshow’ as Hungary gears up for 2026 elections (Guardian)The Turkish Energy Hub and the Hungary Connection: Challenging EU Gas Diversification Efforts (SUITS)Hungary’s Opening Toward Turkey: from Economic Diversification to Political Partnership (IPC)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to produce balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Stüdyo recap editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Can Selçuki, an economist and director of Research Istanbul, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s economic standing after more than two years of reforms under Finance Min. Mehmet Şimşek.Selçuki also outlined Turkey’s trade relations with European and Asian nations, its competitive advantages against other middle-income nations and the challenges posed by its education system.Other topics covered include inflation projections and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) review this month of Turkey’s oversight efforts to prevent money laundering and the funding of terrorist activities.Also referenced in this talk:Türkiye Raporu’s websiteThe World Bank’s Turkey overviewThe latest Lahmacun Index (Susam Bülten)Crime watchdog FATF to visit Turkey after ‘grey list’ exit, sources say (Reuters)Strategic Connectivity in A Contested Era: A Next Generation UK-Turkey Free Trade Agreement (EDAM)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

James Jeffrey, former US ambassador to Turkey, Iraq, Albania and former US special representative for Syria engagement, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Syrian Pres. Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to Washington on Monday, Nov. 10.Jeffrey reviewed US policy in Syria, including a potential US military presence in Damascus and how Washington views the integration of SDF forces with the central Syrian government.Other topics covered include international sanctions, post-war reconstruction efforts and US efforts to contain Iranian and Russian influence in Syria along with remnants of the Islamic State.Also referenced in this talk:Trump hosts Syria’s Sharaa at White House, US renews temporary waiver of tough sanctions (Reuters)US military to establish presence at Damascus airbase, sources say (Reuters)Syria to join US-led coalition to defeat IS group after Trump meeting (BBC)Ankara presented its views, positions on Syria at talks in US: Turkish foreign minister (AA)Sharaa Goes to Washington (Washington Institute)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Sinem Adar, an associate at the Center for Applied Turkey Studies (CATS Network) in the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), joined Turkey recap’s Diego Cupolo to discuss the Turkey-PKK peace process.Adar outlined recent steps taken by Kurdish militants to disarm and withdraw from Turkey as members of the parliamentary peace commission consider a meeting with PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan. Other topics covered include perceived divergences in the AKP-MHP alliance, the CHP’s stance as well as developments in Syria and Israel that could impact the peace talks in Turkey.Also referenced in this talk:Turkey’s Erdogan heralds “new phase” in PKK peace process (Reuters)Turkey may finally release Kurdish leader Demirtaş after nine years in prison (Bianet)SDF to join Syrian army as three distinct units: Commander (Rudaw)Can Turkey Make Multicultural Authoritarianism Work? (Foreign Policy)For more, follow Sinem Adar on X and BlueskyOther ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Fiona Mullen, director of Sapienta Economics, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo, to discuss the elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and what they mean for Cyprus, Turkey and the eastern Mediterranean.Mullen broke down the dynamics that led to a landslide victory for the new, pro-EU TRNC Pres. Tufan Erhürman over the Ankara-backed incumbent Ersin Tatar. She also weighed in on what this means for reunification talks, which Erhürman supports.Other topics covered include US-Republic of Cyprus (RoC) relations, as well as Israel-RoC relations, offshore gas in the eastern Mediterranean and the economic factors behind the election results.Also referenced in this talk:Turkish Cypriots elect moderate leader in crucial policy switch (Politico)Evidence based analysis of Turkish Cypriot elections (Charis Psaltis)Turkish Cypriots Go to the Polls. Will It Matter? (Foreign Policy)Israeli man’s sentence over illegal development in Cyprus’ breakaway north sends a stark warning (AP)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Joining Recap radio today is Soner Çağaptay, a senior fellow at The Washington Institute and author of many books on modern Turkey, including “A Sultan in Autumn: Erdogan Faces Turkey’s Uncontainable Forces” – available here.Çağaptay outlined the shift in US-Turkey ties under the Trump administration, which appears to be viewing Ankara as an increasingly valuable partner for achieving US policy goals in the region. Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo hosted the talk.Topics discussed include Turkey’s apparent hand in bringing Hamas to the negotiating table, Turkey’s potential role in post-war Gaza as well as what this could mean for the Syria transition and future defense sector procurements for Ankara.Also referenced in this talk:Turkish experts await Israeli go ahead to help recover bodies in Gaza (AFP)Turkish NGO begins cleanup, debris removal operations in Gaza (Yeni Şafak)The Ceasefire in Gaza: Views on Security, Palestinian Governance, and Regional Dynamics (Washington Institute)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Prof. Dr. Seda Demiralp joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the state of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) amid mounting corruption investigations – which many citizens view as politicized judicial pressure.Demiralp comments on the looming investigation into CHP Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş, a potential presidential contender as the opposition frontrunner, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu, remains in jail since March 2025.Also discussed is the leadership of CHP chair Özgür Özel, his pro-democracy rally in Brussels Sunday and what might be driving the ruling AKP-MHP bloc’s electoral strategy.Also referenced in this talk:Turkish Prosecutors Plan Misconduct Probe of Ankara Mayor (Bloomberg - Gift)CHP held its first overseas rally in Brussels: ‘We are taking note of those who remain silent about the coup in Turkey’ (BBC Türkçe)Undecided Voters, Anxious Choices: Between Mental Resilience and Fear of Being Tricked (Emotics Lab Research)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Zaur Shiriyev, a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process.Shiriyev outlined the current state of negotiations as well as implications for Turkey, the Zangezur transit corridor and what’s at stake for Russia, Iran, Central Asian nations and the European Union.Israel-Azerbaijan relations were also covered in addition to Baku’s role in the Organization of Turkic States, which held its 12th Summit between leaders as this webcast was recorded.Also referenced in this talk:Leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan shake hands and sign deal at White House peace summit (AP)As They Edge Toward Peace, Armenia and Azerbaijan Must Resist Old Habits (Carnegie) An Unlikely Road to Peace for Armenia and Azerbaijan (Foreign Affairs)Armenia and Azerbaijan: The Hard Road to a Lasting Peace (Crisis Group)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Joining Recap radio this week is Burak Bilgehan Özpek, a professor of political science at TOBB University of Economics and Technology and long-time political commentator for the online publication, Daktilo1984.Together with Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo, Özpek shared his views on why the PKK peace process might collapse, potential faults in the AKP-MHP ruling alliance and succession debates over who might follow Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.The ongoing crackdown on the main opposition CHP was also discussed, along with the Syria transition, Turkey’s current geopolitical value and the role of the international community.Also referenced in this talk:Top pro-Kurdish lawmakers urge faster steps in Turkey’s PKK peace plan (Reuters)Bahçeli calls for Türkiye to join Russia, China in counter alliance (HDN)Turkish foreign minister’s remarks on KAAN fighter jet engine fuel succession rumours (Philenews)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondentYıldız Yazıcıoğlu, Parliament correspondentGünsu Durak, Turkish language editorDemet Şöhret, Social media and content manager This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Arife Köse, a PhD researcher at the University of East Anglia, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss the crackdown on Turkey's opposition, the Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) response and what comes next.They covered the CHP’s extraordinary congress on Sept. 21 and CHP Chair Özgür Özel’s mandate in the face of ongoing judicial pressure that has seen hundreds of party members investigated and/or jailed this year.Köse also outlined how the Turkish government has moved from designing electoral competition to designing the opposition, in general.Also referenced in this talk:Embattled Turkey opposition re-elects leader at party congress (AFP)Turkey: Erdogan rival Imamoğlu stands trial (DW)Trump says to host Turkey's Erdogan at White House on Sept. 25 (Reuters)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Wolfango Piccoli, co-president of political risk advisory services at Teneo, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s economy, how markets approach political risk and what the government is doing (or not) to stem years of high inflation.Piccoli covered investor sentiments towards Turkey, the implications of the ongoing crackdown on the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) and what all that means for Turkey’s economic trajectory, both domestically and in international trade relations.They also discussed the sustainability of the ruling Justice and Development Party’s (AKP) development model as well as high food and rent inflation, which is increasingly felt by Turkish citizens as they lose purchasing power.Also referenced in this talk:Consumer Price Index, August 2025 (TÜIK)Türkiye Releases 2025-2027 Medium-Term Program (Investment and Finance Office)Turkish markets rally as key opposition ruling delayed (Reuters)Turkey's market rout worsens amid protests, worst stock slump since 2008 (Reuters)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Gönül Tol, director of the Turkey Program at the Middle East Institute, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss Turkey’s democratic backsliding, the PKK peace process and Ankara’s Syria policy.This podcast was recorded shortly after a court-appointed trustee took over the leadership of the main opposition Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) Istanbul provincial headquarters amid wide-spanning corruption investigations into the party.Tol covered the CHP’s response to date, what recent developments mean for democratic elections in Turkey and how peace negotiations with the PKK impact both domestic and foreign policy, with a focus on SDF-Damascus talks in Syria.Also referenced in this talk:Don’t Trust Erdogan’s ‘Peace Process’ With the Kurds (Foreign Policy)Erdoğan’s War: A Strongman’s Struggle at Home and in Syria (Oxford University Press)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Neslihan Çevik, a sociologist, former politician, consultant and non-resident fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture at the University of Virginia, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss falling fertility rates in Turkey.Çevik expanded on the ideas she outlined in a recent commentary for the National News, titled “This is what the Muslim world needs to do to boost its birth rate”. Using examples from Turkey, the Middle East and other regions, Çevik argued marriage norms and expectations play a larger role in determining birth rates than other more commonly cited – and more polarizing – theories.Also referenced in this talk:Birth Statistics, 2023 (TurkStat)Statistics on Child, 2024 (TurkStat)Dependency and depopulation? Confronting the consequences of a new demographic reality (McKinsey. & Company)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe

Long-time journalist Andrew Finkel joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss media culture and media capture in Turkey under the Pres. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.Having contributed to both international and Turkish media outlets, Finkel has a unique perspective on news in Turkey. He witnessed the transformation of mainstream media from the 1990s till the present day, in which about 90 percent of the sector is pro-government or owned by government-friendly companies.In this episode, we cover the AKP’s consolidation of mainstream media, what that means for people following news about Turkey, and we connect those trends with the current state of free speech and politics in Turkey … possibly, providing examples or warnings for countries experiencing similar threats to free speech, like the US.Finkel is also co-founder of P24, a non-profit platform for independent journalism and free expression in Turkey, and author of the book: “The Adventure of the Second Wife: The Strange Case of Abdülahamid and Sherlock Holmes”.Also referenced in this talk:The Crack in Everything (P24)Tales from the Turkish newsroom: Why Newspapers Sometimes Lie (Anglo-Turkish Society)Turkey: What Everyone Needs to Know (Oxford University Press)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: info@turkeyrecap.com.Subscribe here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe