34 Groups Demand Public Forum on Peace and Democracy in Istanbul

Thirty-four Turkish civil society groups have called for a major public forum on peace and democracy. The event is planned for January 18, 2026, in Istanbul's Bakırköy district. The coalition includes organizations focused on human rights, labor, ecology, women's rights, Alevi faith, disability rights, and peace. In their statement, they stressed that the peace and democracy process must not be left solely to the government's initiative. They argue that broader civil society must help shape the country's future. The planned forum aims to create a platform for this public discussion.