Turkish Villagers Enter 12th Day of Protest Against Geothermal Plant

Residents in Varto, eastern Turkey, are continuing their sit-in protest for a 12th day, opposing the construction of a geothermal power plant (JES). Protesters have hung banners at the demonstration site. One reads: “Do not exploit labor, do not consume nature.” Another, written in the local Zaza language, translates to: “This is not our grandfathers’ heritage. The father is not an alcoholic, I do not want JES.” The community’s action reflects local opposition to the energy project, which they argue threatens their land and traditional way of life. The protest shows no signs of ending.