Şener Elcil KTOS - the Turkish Cypriot demo on 2nd March will be bigger than 28.01.2011

CyBC bi-lingual program spoken in Turkish with Greek subtitles, Biz Emeis 25/02/2011 featured an interview with Şener Elcil, Secretary General of the KTOS Turkish Cypriot Teachers' Union.

The intreview was about the massive 28th January demonstration seeking to ensure the continuing existence of the Turkish Cypriot community, and about his views on the reactions in the Turkish Cypriot community to the statements made by Turkish premier Erdogan. There is to be a second mass demonstration by Turkish Cypriots on 2nd March 2011.


Click to view this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgXdktsnkzE

TRANSLATION FROM THE GREEK SUBTITLES

    Introduction: The echoes from the demonstration held on 28th January 2011 organised by the Trade Union Platform. The insulting words directed at Turkish Cypriots by Turkish Prime Minister Tayiip Erdogan raised tension levels between the Turkish Cypriot community and the Turkish Government. In order to make an assessment tonight we have here with us the Secretary General of the KTOS Teachers' Union, Mr Şener Elcil. Welcome ...


    .. in the conversation we had in the studio before the 28th January demonstration (see video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0xlo33vmbs  ) you had said that you expected massive participation by the people. In the time that has elapsed since then there have been significant developments. In your view, did the 28th January demonstration achieve its purposes, and to what extent?


    SE: I would like first of all to thank you. The demonstration did achieve its purpose. We have no doubt on that. Our purpose was to project the reaction of our community to the impositions and to stress that the Turkish Cypriots will not capitulate to them. I want to tell you that your program is very effective. It has widespread viewership in 'the north', particularly among certain circles. We are receiving considerable criticism because of your program and we have become targets of charges that we take instructions and money from Mr Christofias in having organised these demonstrations and that we use this program for our propaganda.


    We don't need to do propaganda.


    The community in 'the south' and in 'the north' knows us, it knows our views. We are not doing something in secret and our actions are visible to the people ...



    (Q) ... Excuse my interrupting ... they say that when it is your enemies who are accusing you, it must be a sign that you are doing something right.


    (SE) That's right ... as per the Turkish proverb - they throw stones at the fruit-bearing trees.


    We are doing our duty - we are trying to open the way for our community and we stress that the future of our country is ensured through peace and reunification and not with war.


    This is our basic aim. We are teachers. A teacher is a social being. Our duty is not to just go to class to teach, but our duty is to be interested in matters beyond our schools, to social problems, to help solve problems which are faced by our society and act in areas where we need to develop policy. That is what we are trying to do.


    (Q) After the demonstration the Turkish Prime Minister, Tayiip Erdogan caused intense reactions through the insulting statements he made. Certain circles are trying to soften these reactions. What is the current situation?


    (SE) Mr Erdogan has shown his real face. We have been saying this for a long time, that Mr Erdogan does not want a solution to the Cyprus issue. He appears to want a solution but he pushes things towards non-solution. On the other hand he is constantly placing obstacles in the procedures which could help the Turkish Cypriots take their fate in their own hands. On the one hand he tries to increase dependence of 'the north' with the mass influx of population from Turkey, particularly after the year 2000. Today an issue exists about 'naturalising' them ... in the 'parliamentary' session in 'the north' two days ago it was said that 250,000 persons are waiting to be 'naturalised'. In addition. Mr Erdogan encourages the large inflows of capital which is associated with him to be moved and invested in 'the north'. All this is not the result of a consciousness which wishes for a solution, but of a consciousness which aims at the conversion of 'the north' into a colony.


    Consequently, the comments by Mr Erdogan, five days after the demonstration, essentially show his real face and real feelings about the Turkish Cypriots. He calls us “kept parasites”.


    Turkey came to the island on the pretext that it was protecting the Turkish Cypriots. But it is using us to make politics, as it did with the agreements for the Republic of Cyprus in '60, and on the other hand it is trying to sideline us.


    I see that the Erdogan reactions and those of AKP officials who are expressing themselves offensively and who insult Turkish Cypriots provoke stronger reactions in our community.


    We are struggling to be able to become masters in our own lands, to be able ourselves to govern us.


    We are not struggling in order to become puppets or employees of Mr Erdogan.


    We expect our political will to be respected.


    We are not struggling for the money.


    We are not struggling for economic reasons.


    I want to stress this.


    If I judge on the basis of the voices I hear from 'the south', there is an emergent view that the mobilisations of the Turkish Cypriots are aimed at money or other economic benefits. Such a view is entirely wrong.



    (Q) A neutral third party observer of the situation might, and please do correct me if I am wrong, conclude that there are among certain Turkish Cypriot circles those who in one way or another undermine your struggle, and if you want me to be more specific I would say that there are certain columnists in Turkish Cypriot newspapers (and I could provide you with names if asked) who present the view that the Turkish Cypriots (after the Erdogan statements) will be intimidated, will be frightened to take to the streets. Is it like that?


    (SE) That does not apply. As I can here now talk comfortably, and in 'the north' people do speak freely - the Turkish Cypriots are protecting their democratic freedom in the best possible way.


    (Q) I'll express it differently and clarify what I meant, which I may have not expressed clearly. Some columnists who are opposed to your struggle are trying to convince readers that following Erdogan's threats, the people who had taken to the streets on the 28th of January will not come out now. That they will stay in their homes. And we must say this -- even in AFRIKA ... lets say things with names ... there are such articles appearing.


    (SE) I must say to you that I have exactly the opposite impression. With his offensive speech, Mr Erdogan has prompted even people who had not talked until today, to take to the streets. As a result, the demonstration on 2nd March will be larger and more impressive than the demonstration which took place on 28th January. Certain people naturally, constantly, try to prevent the demonstration taking place. Certain political parties in 'the north' ... following his visit to Ankara Mr Talat stated that the tones should be lowered, as if he had taken on the role of the fireman ... and there are other political parties such as that ...  they circulate rumours that there will be attacks against the demonstrators, that there will be transfers from Turkey of special action units and policemen ... these are rumours which are intended to intimidate our people. We are fed up with such rumours.


    We are determined to defend our democratic rights to the end.


    We expect the same also of the Greek Cypriot community.


    We go out to the squares and we have two basic demands. One: that we should ourselves govern our place, Two: that  a solution is found as soon as possible for Cyprus to be reunited. 


    It is very significant for the Greek Cypriots to also go out into the streets, to demonstrate their desire for a solution. This will give a very positive message to the whole world. There is no sense for only one side to want a solution. The large organisations of the Greek Cypriots, they could for example, organise for the same time as ours, a demonstration at Eleftheria (Liberation) Square or somewhere else. This would give a very significant message to the world. What I am talking about does not need to be coordinated. The organisations of the two sides can simply express a common will regarding this matter.


    I am not asking my Greek Cypriot comrades and compatriots to come to 'the north' to support us. We can marshall the masses. What is significant is that they also activate the masses, so we can project the common will for a solution, the reunification of Cyprus and of Cyprus being governed by Cypriots without foreign impositions.


    (Q) Speaking with Turkish Cypriots, most of them are somewhat upset that there has not been support ... the simple statements do not provide some security to the Turkish Cypriots ... you as the Trade Union Platform are struggling for Cyprus. Do you not feel alone in this struggle?


    (SE) The Turkish Cypriot community has always struggled ... it has never ceased to struggle. Even if we are numerically small, we never stopped struggling.  I believe we will also have the support from the international community because our struggle is just. As we have seen, even if only symbolically we have been supported also by the Greek Cypriot comrades. But this is not enough. As in the past, so today we continue our struggle to the best of our abilities. Our struggle is not a new one. For many years now the Teachers Union and a team of progressive people have been struggling for many years, for the future of the Turkish Cypriot community, and for a solution, for peace in our country. This loneliness is not  something new for us. We see however that every day increases ever more the number of people who understand and support us within the international community and in Cyprus.


    (Q) So, Teacher - on the 2nd of March you expect a larger turn out by the people. Do you feel that the squares are able to hold you all?


    (SE) On the 28th January the square was not big enough for us all. When one wants to gather the whole world in one place there is no square which will be large enough. It doesn't matter if the squares are not big enough to hold all of us. Our aim is that the people should come to demonstrate their reaction.  Our reaction regards the governance of the Turkish Cypriots by the governments of Turkey. We stress this. Enough already of this abuse, the insults and swearing at us. We want to recover our democratic rights and to enjoy the political rights equally with the Greek Cypriots. We don't want to live any longer in isolation from the rest of the world. We want our children and our grandchildren to live better days in this place, in a reunited Cyprus.



    (Q) What happens if ... you said earlier that there are statements to intimidate, that they have threatened to bring forces from Turkey, etc, etc ... what if these are not just threats, what happens if they don't just stay on threats and if they actually go ahead. If there is even a provocation during the whole story? Have you anticipated this? What are your thoughts?


    (SE) We have for many years lived under exceptional circumstances. In 'the north' there are 45-50,000 soldiers. In such an environment it would be easy to cause provocations during a demonstration. This matter is always on the agenda. We constantly reappraise the situation. We have experiences and we always seek solutions on how to prevent such a possibility.


    In the past, they have placed a bomb at Inonou Square ... in 2002. We defused it. We were prepared for every possible provocation.



    (Q) Has the matter of banners been discussed? What slogans will the banners have which will be used by the platform? Will there be flags?


    (SE)  We do not consider it right to exploit national symbols at demonstrations. We are opposed to any flag at the demonstrations. We consider that ... exploitation. The message we want to convey is crystal clear.


    We do not intend to demonstrate who is the most nationalist, or otherwise.


    We have suffered a lot and we suffer still from the nationalisms and the racisms.


    As a platform we declare that we do not consider it right to take nationalist emblems to the squares.


    As far as the banners are concerned - people are expressing their opinions and their emotions in two ways - verbally and in writing with banners. We do not consider it right to limit people's freedom of expression. We decided as a platform that there is to be no restriction on the carrying of banners during the demonstration as long as it is not of an offensive nature. We do not however consider it right that banners should be displayed that would divert the demonstration from its main aim. We have experienced this in the past. Consequently there is no restrictions on expression provided it takes place in a civilised manner.



    (Q) As far as flags are concerned ...


    (SE) We are against the use of national symbols. Whoever brings a flag will cause us to react appropriately.



    (Q) I want to ask also about the measures to restrict some of your strike actions ....


    (SE) The administration in 'the north' went on a visit to Ankara where the taking of certain measures was discussed. In 'the north' opposition is by certain unions. Most political parties have been completely marginalised. Yet others need approval from Ankara before they can wield positions of authority. Unions do not depend on the vote, so they can look to the future. That is why we are struggling.


    We know that certain measures have been taken. One of these was the suspension of strikes and was in fact based on a ruling from the days of British colonialism, of 1939. Those who bad-mouth the British administration now use the regulations of that era to suspend the strikes at three schools for two months. Yesterday in Nicosia we had a warning strike, in the schools, we protested. Today we have a strike in another school. Tomorrow in more schools. We will continue our struggle.


    

    (Q) All the things we see happening, in Egypt, in Libya and in other countries,  how do they affect your struggle? Do you see them as an example, do they form yet another reinforcement to your struggle?


    (SE) In Libya, in Bahrain, in Tunisia, in Egypt ... in many places in the Arab world people are revolting in order to acquire democratic rights. Where there is a democratic deficit, where dictatorial and autocratic regimes exist and where there are no democratic rights people are revolting. If people try to deflect one struggle with repression and bans the people will erupt. They are left with no other choice. This is happening in Cyprus also. Everything which is happening around us has a positive influence on our struggle also.



    (Q) As we approach the end of our time I would like to touch upon a very serious issue. The other day you had mentioned that nationality should not be granted to the children whose parents are not Cypriot. Certain circles are accusing you of racism. How do you answer that?


    (SE) This is a hand-crafted news item. I had made a statement in the newspaper Fileleftheros. There are people who came from Turkey and settled in Cyprus. Their children, who are born and grow up in Cyprus - when they are sent to Turkey find it difficult to live there because they can not assimilate. They have learnt our way of life. They feel they belong to these places. These people are in the middle. That is what I had expressed. The children who were born in Cyprus from Turkish parents have identity problems. These children have not been able to, and will not be able to become citizens of the Republic of Cyprus. This is a reality. That is what I had expressed. The news agency in 'the north' which does the translating diluted my comments and turned them against me.  News Agencies involve  the art of reporting on events. For us however it has been turned into the art of reporting false and erroneous news. They can continue attacking me but I will continue to speak about realities.



    (Q) We have only a minute left, and I would like to ask you how far you are prepared to go, and to what extent are  all the unions which take part in the mobilisations united as they had started?


    (SE) Between the trade union organisations there is close cooperation and dialogue. There certainly are different views, differences in the political sphere, but we continue to go forward together. I liken it to a speeding train. The unions are like the steam engine, behind them are the political parties and the non governmental organisations. The train is travelling at such great speed that if anyone jumps off it they will break their head, will be seriously injured or even killed. Consequently no one wants to jump off the train because the destination of this train is the liberation of our community. Everyone is working soul and body so we can reach our destination.

OTHER RELEVANT ITEMS RECORDED FROM CYPRUS BROADCASTING CORPORATION


Anti-Turkey demonstrations by Turkish Cypriots explained - bilingual spoken in Turkish with Greek subtitles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoIvJ5bUY2w


Bilingual Greek-Turkish program Biz Emeis continues coverage relating to the Turkish Cypriot protests and demonstrations in the Turkish occupied parts of the island. "As is well known, Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan made insulting statements about the Turkish Cypriots in reaction to certain placards which were displayed during the massive demonstration on 28.01.2011 giving rise to tensions in relations with Turkey in Turkish occupied Cyprus".

This program, broadcast by Cyprus Broadcasting Corporaton on 11.02.2011 features interviews with two of the persons who had displayed some of the placards which had caused Tayyip Erdogan to take such offence - Hasan Yikici, Political activist from the "Baraka" Cultural Centre (http://www.baraka.cc/), and, Evrim Kamali from the "Jasmin Movement".


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Turkish Cypriots - English extracts - the  "Liberation" which became a Nightmare
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Zew8c9Re7g


Extracts spoken in English, from a one hour current events program about the Turkish Cypriot demonstrations against economic measures being imposed by Turkey on the areas which are occupied 37 years after its invasion and occupation. This program (Turkish Cypriots - the "Liberation" which became a Nightmare) in the Anoiktoi Fakeloi (Open Files) series was broadcast by CyBC on 22.02.2011 and featured some interviews with Turkish Cypriots as well as with all Greek Cypriot political party leaders and President Christofias providing their assessment of the Turkish Cypriot demonstrations.

The above video clip is an extract from the full (60 min) item which is available at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUwlnX-KVJ0


Setting the context - interview with Metin Münir who is a Turkey-based Cypriot political analyst and columnist for the daily Milliyet.

Interviews in English with Turkish Cypriots during the 28.01.2011 demonstration in Turkish occupied Nicosia:

Political analyst Ahmet Sozen of the Eastern Mediterranean University’s (EMU) Cyprus Policy Centre

Şener Ercil - Secretary General of KTOS - Turkish Cypriot Teachers' Union


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Turkish Cypriot Revolt - an appraisal spoken in Greek

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3DYOYzu3hM



Spoken in Greek with Turkish subtitles, this was a Biz-Emeis bilingual pogram broadcast by CyBC on 22.02.2011. to provide a considered reaction from members of the Greek Cypriot community to the mass demonstration against the economic policies and settler policy being enforced on Turkish-occupied Cyprus by Turkey.

Speakers:

Director of KIPE, commentator, journalist and lecturer in Social and Political Studies - Mr Costakis Constantinou

Member of the Bi-Communal Initiative, Former Member of Parliament and EU Negotiator, Mr Takis HadjiDemetriou


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Turkish Cypriot Protests - 1of3 - Discussed in Greek
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IRpeF4ARh4



Turkish Cypriot protests - 2of3 - KTOS Teachers Union Chairman Interviewed - Turkish

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QroG_B0cHNM


Turkish Cypriot Protests - 3of3 - Discussed in Greek

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJHrSeIRrEM


CyBC weekly current events program Proektasis devoted its 10/02/2011 to a discussion with a panel of Greek Cypriot commentators providing an appraisal of the massive demonstration by 40,000 Turkish Cypriots on 28/01/2011. This program was also following events developing live at that time with Egypt's then-president Mubarak being due to make a televised speech during which he eventually announced he would not resign.

Panel consisted of:

Christos Pourgourides - DISY

Demetris Syllouris - President of the European Party EVROKO

Nikos Moudouros - Advisor to President Christofias on Turkey affairs

Takis HadjiDemetriou, former Member of the House of Representatives, former EU negotiator and member of the BiCommunal Initiative


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Turkish Cypriots General Strike documentary - protesting Turkey's policies 28.01.2011

(Turkish with Greek subs)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhQEY9YGtOg


Documentary, spoken in Turkish with Greek subtitles, about the demonstration organised by the platform of trade unions attended by 40-50,000 Turkish Cypriots against the economic measures and immigration policies being imposed on the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus by Turkey. Produced by the staff of the Bi Lingual Greek-Turkish language Program Biz Emeis, as broadcast by Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation on 08.02.2011.

Includes interviews with many persons attending the demonstration including some of the event organisers and excerpts from some of the speeches


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Turkish Cypriot unions object to Erdogans "Strategic Interests" over Cyprus demos

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PY8DQonfjxI


CyBC news 07.02.2011 in English, Turkish and Greek report on how Turkish Cypriots found Turkish PM Erdogan's statements about his country's "Strategic Interests" in Cyprus to be offensive, and union leaders involved in organising the General Strike and the massive demonstration on 28.01.2011 handed in their objections at the "Turkish Embassy" in Nicosia and said they would organiser further mass demonstrations.

A union boss said 07.02.2011 that they had gone to the Turkish embassy because they wanted to send a message: "We do not accept what they are imposing on us. We are against it and we do not want to be hostages and slaves until Turkey joins the EU. We are ready to fight for our rights."

Also, statements by Cyprus Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou about the Erdogan statements, and questions to UN's Alexander Downer during his meeting with Cyprus President Demetris Christofias 07.02.2011


-----------


Turkey's Erdogan Furious at Turkish Cypriot 2011 Demos

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdCZFH2TpFQ

 
Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation news reports, in English, Turkish and Greek, (5th, 6th and 7th February 2011) report the furious comments by Turkey's Prime Minister Erdogan following the demonstration on 28.01.2011 and the General Strike called by the platform of Turkish Cypriot trade unions to protest Turkey's economic and immigration policies with reference to Turkish-occupied Cyprus - Erdogan called for organisers to be arrested.


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Turkish Cypriots General Strike protesting Turkey's policies 28.01.2011

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-PsxLXnwPo


News reports on the major event involving mobilisation of a reported 50,000 demonstrators during the General Strike by the platform of Turkish Cypriot Unions held on 28.01.2011 at Inonu Square in Turkish occupied Nicosia, protesting the economic and immigration measures being imposed by Turkey.

News in English, Turkish and Greek from Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation on 28th January 2011 and on 29th January.

Also, the last clip is from the profile facebook.com/cetin.t.karaca featuring the music "Ciao Bella" with video footage from the demonstration.


-----------


Zeki Βeşiktepeli - 27.01.2011 pre General Strike by Turkish Cypriots - in Greek Turkish with subs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkQnJKSqBiA


Political analyst and founder of the Jasmine Party in Cyprus, academic Zeki Βeşiktepeli is interviewed on the day before the historic General Strike demonstration by up to 50,000 Turkish Cypriots in Turkish-occupied Cyprus, against Turkey's economic measures and the immigration policy enforced by Turkey sending hundreds of thousands of mainland settlers to change the demographic structure which now threatens the very existence of 'the Turkish Cypriots'.

Spolen in Greek and Turkish (with subtitles in Greek and Turkish) as recorded by the bilingual Biz Emeis Program on 27th January 2011, the day before the General Strike demonstration, and broadcast on 1st February 2011 by Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation.


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Şener Elcil KTOS - 1of3 - General Strike in Turkish occupied Cyprus

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0xlo33vmbs


Part 2:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WMNlUX4B4I


Part 3:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJ3Fh1sjT00


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Sener Ercil - UN and EU officials turn blind eye to Turkey's settler policy in Cyprus
September 2010

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=437782333599

Translation into English from the Greek subtitles of Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation 'Biz Emeis' [ http://www.cybc.com.cy/tv/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=195&Itemid=236 ] bilingual program on 16/09/2010 featuring an interview with General Secretary of KTOS (Turkish Cypriot Teachers Union [ http://www.ktos.org/ ]) KTOS Sener Ercil. Mr Ercil  is also a member of the Executive Committee of ETUCE (European Trade Union Committee for Education) [ http://www.ktos.org/en/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=12&Itemid=8 ] and is a founder member of "This Country is Ours" Movement in Cyprus.

Archive copy of the original broadcast Video, spoken in Turkish, with Greek subtitles:

Part 1 20100916_CYBC_BizEmeis_Sener_Elcil_KTOS_01

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=470253570931

Part 2: 20100916_CYBC_BizEmeis_Sener_Elcil_KTOS_02

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=470234705931


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http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150132561225850&comments

28 ocak eylemi

by Murat Kanatlı (videos)

4:37

çav bella, daha ne olsun :)


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http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=498117792630&comments
FARK VAR!!! ARKASINDA HALK VAR!!!

by Çetin Tolga Karaca (videos)

2:26


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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGNVVWb6X1I


28 Ocak 2011 Varoluş Mitingi




SELECTION OF PRESS ARTICLES:




http://ataturksocietyuk.com/2011/02/16/erdogan-the-loser/

Erdoğan the loser 16feb11

Hurriyet Daily News

Monday, February 7, 2011

YUSUF KANLI


http://www.todayszaman.com/newsDetail_getNewsById.action?newsId=234866

Erdoğan, Talat hold talks on anti-Turkey protests
08 February 2011, Tuesday


http://m.cyprus-mail.com/features/colonial-erdogan-traps-eroglu-catch-22/20110213

‘Colonial’ Erdogan traps Eroglu in a Catch-22
By Simon Bahceli

February 13, 2011


http://www.cyprus-mail.com/cyprus-problem/ankara-listening-cry-turkish-cypriots/20110211

Is Ankara listening to the cry of Turkish Cypriots?

By Yiorghos Leventis

February 11, 2011


http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,14829513,00.html

Turkish Cypriot protests set back Turkey's EU membership bid

09.02.2011


http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=pm-demands-legal-action-against-turkish-cypriot-protestors-2011-02-06

Turkish PM demands action against Turkish Cypriot protesters

Sunday, February 6, 2011


http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=tahrir-square-don8217t-overlook-inonu-square-in-nicosia-2011-02-11

Tahrir Square? Don’t overlook İnönü Square in Nicosia
Friday, February 11, 2011

CENGİZ AKTAR


http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/world/2011-02/07/c_13721989.htm

Turkish Cypriots march in protest against Turkish PM's statements

2011-02-07


http://www.eurasianet.org/node/62921
 
Turkey: Cyprus Issue Moving to Forefront
February 18, 2011, by Nicholas Birch


http://www.neurope.eu/articles/The-Cypriot-revolt/104807.php

The Cypriot revolt

Robert Ellis

20 February 2011





Please add your name to support the petition on the web, placed online by Turkish Cypriots, and already signed by many of the leaders of the Turkish Cypriot movement:


http://www.turkishinvasioncyprus.com/

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http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/the-turkish-cypriots-are-out-in-the-streets-again/


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Closing thought:


    "Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding" - Albert Einstein

Turkish Cypriot Revolt, Demonstration & Protests which Rocked Turkey 2011

Turkish Cypriots General Strike documentary - protesting Turkey's policies 28.01.2011

(spoken in Turkish with Greek subtitles)
Documentary, spoken in Turkish with Greek subtitles, about the demonstration organised by the platform of trade unions attended by 40-50,000 Turkish Cypriots against the economic measures and immigration policies being imposed on the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus by Turkey. Produced by the staff of the Bi Lingual Greek-Turkish language Program Biz Emeis, as broadcast by Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation on 08.02.2011.

Includes interviews with many persons attending the demonstration including some of the event organisers and excerpts from some of the speeches (another version of this item with English subtitles will be uploaded to this account in coming days).



Link





Anti-Turkey demonstrations by Turkish Cypriots explained - Turkish-Greek
(spoken in Turkish with Greek subtitles)

Bilingual Greek-Turkish program Biz Emeis continues coverage relating to the Turkish Cypriot protests and demonstrations in the Turkish occupied parts of the island. "As is well known, Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan made insulting statements about the Turkish Cypriots in reaction to certain placards which were displayed during the massive demonstration on 28.01.2011 giving rise to tensions in relations with Turkey in Turkish occupied Cyprus".

This program, broadcast by Cyprus Broadcasting Corporaton on 11.02.2011 features interviews with two of the persons who had displayed some of the placards which had caused Tayyip Erdogan to take such offence - Hasan Yikici, Political activist from the "Baraka" Cultural Centre (http://www.baraka.cc/), and, Evrim Kamali from the "Jasmin Movement".
 

Link





TV News reports about the demonstration by CyBC, in English Greek and Turkish:
News reports on the major event involving mobilisation of a reported 50,000 demonstrators during the General Strike by the platform of Turkish Cypriot Unions held on 28.01.2011 at Inonu Square in Turkish occupied Nicosia, protesting the economic and immigration measures being imposed by Turkey.

News in English, Turkish and Greek from Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation on 28th January 2011 and on 29th January.

The last clip is from the profile facebook.com/cetin.t.karaca featuring the music "Ciao Bella" with video footage from the demonstration.



Link





Turkey's Erdogan Furious at Turkish Cypriot 2011 Demos
Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation news reports, in English, Turkish and Greek, (5th, 6th and 7th February 2011) report the furious comments by Turkey's Prime Minister Erdogan following the demonstration on 28.01.2011 and the General Strike called by the platform of Turkish Cypriot trade unions to protest Turkey's economic and immigration policies with reference to Turkish-occupied Cyprus - Erdogan called for organisers to be arrested.



Link




Turkish Cypriot unions object to Erdogans "Strategic Interests" over Cyprus demos
CyBC news 07.02.2011 in English, Turkish and Greek report on how Turkish Cypriots found Turkish PM Erdogan's statements about his country's "Strategic Interests" in Cyprus to be offensive, and union leaders involved in organising the General Strike and the massive demonstration on 28.01.2011 handed in their objections at the "Turkish Embassy" in Nicosia and said they would organiser further mass demonstrations.

A union boss said 07.02.2011 that they had gone to the Turkish embassy because they wanted to send a message: "We do not accept what they are imposing on us. We are against it and we do not want to be hostages and slaves until Turkey joins the EU. We are ready to fight for our rights."

Also, statements by Cyprus Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou about the Erdogan statements, and questions to UN's Alexander Downer during his meeting with Cyprus President Demetris Christofias 07.02.2011



Link





Interview with Şener Elcil
The Secretary General of the KTOS Teacher's Union, Talks about the General Strike in the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus on the 28th, broadcast on 25th January 2011.
(spoken in Turkish with Greek subtitles)

Part 1:

Link


Part 2:

Link


Part 3:

Link





Zeki Βeşiktepeli - 27.01.2011 pre General Strike by Turkish Cypriots - in Greek Turkish with subs

Link




Şener Elcil - "UN and EU officials turn blind eye to Turkey's settler policy in Cyprus"
http://aspectsofreality.blogspot.com/2010/09/serer-ercil-un-and-eu-officials-turn.html



Izzet Izcan - Turkey threatens Cypriots with annihilation
1of3
Interview, in Turkish with English subtitles, with Izzet Izcan, Secretary General of the Turkish Cypriot political party "United Cyprus", about the outcome of the 'elections' in Turkish-occupied Cyprus in April 2010 with Dervis Eroglu replacing Mehmet Ali Talat as leader of the Turkish Cypriots, the political situation in Cyprus and prospects for the intercommunal talks which recommence on 26th May.


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Part 2:

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Part 3:

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See also the embeddable:
http://www.livestream.com/turkish_troops_out_of_cyprus

Watch live streaming video from turkish_troops_out_of_cyprus at livestream.com

Sener Elcil - UN and EU officials turn blind eye to Turkey's settler policy in Cyprus

Archive copy of the original broadcast, spoken in Turkish, with Greek subritles:

Translation (below) into English from the Greek subtitles of Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation 'Biz Emeis' bilingual program on 16/09/2010 featuring an interview with General Secretary of KTOS (Turkish Cypriot Teachers Union) Sener Ercil. Mr Elcil  is also a member of the Executive Committee of ETUCE (European Trade Union Committee for Education) and is a founder member of "This Country is Ours" Movement in Cyprus.

It is expected that coming days will see the intensification of the struggle against the package of economic measures which is being imposed on the Turkish Cypriot community.


The KTOS Union continues, as always, to lead trade union activism in the Turkish Cypriot community. Tonight we welcome to the studio the General Secretary of KTOS Mr Sener Elcil who will update us on the current situation. Welcome.


(Q) The holidays are over ...


(A) We don't have holidays, as the union I mean. Our teachers and students have been on holiday but we continue with our duties.


(Q) What is the situation today within the trade union movement?


 (A) As you know, the Turkish government has for a long time now been imposing its policies on our community. In order to be able to react to these policies various unions, from all the political platforms have joined together on a single platform. This consists of 35 unions. A basic purpose for our joint platform is to react to Turkey's economic measures. Because, with the pretext of the international economic crisis, Turkey is trying to impose on the Turkish Cypriot community some of its own perceptions. This is not something new. It is something which began in 1986, or even earlier. It is therefore the duty of every Turkish Cypriot who loves his country to oppose the measures because the fundamental basis of these measures is the assimilation of the Turkish Cypriots and the absorption of the north into Turkey.


(Q) Is the trade union movement itself sufficiently united? Do you have common decisions or are there different views amongst you?


(A) As I said earlier, the platform consists of 35 unions from different political viewpoints. Among these there are unions with very strong ideological and political affiliations. Many of these had in earlier times  been members of the "This Country is Ours" movement. Some unions joined us more recently but they had been closely related with the subservient administration. What unites us is our reaction to the attack which is being made on workers' rights. Politically however we do not have common goals. Although we are fighting for a solution and for a united federal Cyprus some of the other unions are happy with the existing situation, and some of them support the creation of a separate state in the north. This is one basic point of difference between us.


(Q) Would you say that there has been a reaction against Turkey's policies because it has cut funding to Turkish Cypriots?


(A) That would not be a correct representation of what is happening. The existing political administration in the north has been created by Turkey. It is a system that has been created by the Turkish governments in which, although apparently there is a vote for the election of the leadership and of the officials of the administration, the place is effectively ruled by the beaureocrats of the Turkish embassy who have the determining say. There is the "Finance Minister" and the economic advisors. The "Minister" can not make any policies without the support of his advisors. The same applies to the "Education Minister". Without the approval of these advisors the "Minister" can not do anything. The political regime is founded on the perception that he who pays has the final say and the others must obey the instructions.


The contention that Turkey supports us, as they say, economically is mistaken and I can explain the factors to you. In earlier times Turkey spent close to 350 million dollars a year on construction projects and other expenses. As far as we know, recently this sum has grown to 700 million. These are official figures regarding the gift, loan or help from Turkey. According to official figures, our imports from Turkey are around 1.6 billion dollars a year. I do not include unofficial figures. If we estimate the cost of the presence in the north of illegal workers this rises to 4 billion dollars. Money which leaves Cyprus to Turkey. Because all our imports and economic relations are with Turkey the north is a profitable place for Turkey. It is a colony. It spends one and gains five.


(Q) Turkey frequently talks about the isolation of the Turkish Cypriots and about an embargo that must be stopped. Would the lifting of isolation of the Turkish Cypriots be beneficial to Turkey?


(A) Turkey has until today never accepted the idea that the Turkish Cypriots can rely on their own resources and determine their own future. What Turkey wants is a subservient entity. That is why Turkey never allowed the creation in the north of a healthy economic environment. The economy in the north consists of a host of activities which are not commensurate with the self respect of the Turkish Cypriots. There is at this time an economic system which is based on the casinos, the gambling clubs, pornography and money laundering. Lately, newspapers write about a trade in drugs. In Turkey for example there was the interception of a load of 142 kilos of heroin and all indications point to the north. This means the mafia and those who benefit from illegal acts have settled in the north. You can not base an economy on such things. The economy of a place depends on production an not on the kind of things I have mentioned. Production in our country has stopped completely.


We do not consider it right to talk about isolation and embargos. Embargo is what applies to Cuba. In the north one can today arrange imports from any country one wants to. The Turkish Cypriots can go to the south for their shopping. They can travel to all the countries of the world either directly from Larnaca or through Turkey from Ercan. For that reason it is a mistake to talk of isolation. Isolation exists only for the separatist entity in the north. There is a decision about this by the United Nations. There is no isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community. As long as the separatist entity exist it will be isolated. We must know this very clearly because this is the policy of the international community based on the decisions of the United Nations.


(Q) Turkey has recently increased its pressures on Turkish Cypriots, and has done so in a more blatant manner than has been the case in the past. Not only does this happen blatantly but it happens in an insulting manner, such as for example the recent statements by the Turkish Prime Minister on Turkish television. 


(A) It is well known that with the support of the U.S.A. and because of its relations with the European Union, Turkey is becoming a large economy. Some of the factors which contribute to the strengthening of Turkey are the projects to transport natural gas through Turkey, the support of moderate Islam in the Middle East, and the making of Turkey into America's and NATO's policeman in the Middle East. For the European Union Turkey represents a huge market and a place for cheap production. Turkey is exploiting the fact that the political balances are based on economic power.


Since 1974 Turkey continues the process of placing settlers in the north. Despite this being a war crime the international community turns a blind eye to this. As a result the population in the north is estimated to be between 720 thousand and a million.


Turkey is trying through political imposition, to implement assimilation of the Turkish Cypriot communuty. With the political power which the AKP Government has acquired the Turkish government no longer needs the Turkish Cypriots and so it is now openly pursuing its colonialism in Cyprus provoking the international community. As regards the Turkish Cypriots, it oppresses them with the aim of forcing them to move to the south or to immigrate to other countries. The oppression of the Turkish Cypriots happens not only through economic means, but also culturally and through religious means. Turkish ministers who visit the country spend their evenings opening gambling establishments and their days signing agreements for the building of mosques and facilities related to them. Turkish Cypriots are therefore exposed to the pressures by Turkey to change their cultural identity and lose their natural characteristics.


(Q) Bearing in mind everything you have told us about the pressures by Turkey on the Turkish Cypriots but also bearing in mind the economic crisis of the last two to three years what are the current economic circumstances for the Turkish Cypriots?


(A) The system which has been imported is intended to create a favoured 'ruling elite'. To create a subservient administration which already exists in the north. They will be amply rewarded while the other sections of the society will be low pay, reduced to the same levels as in Turkey. The normal living conditions in the north, and the basic needs are the same as in the south. On the other hand the living standards in Turkey are much lower in comparison with Cyprus. By reducing the living standards of the Turkish Cypriots it is basically forcing them to live with lower incomes and forces them to migrate. With reference to the administrators, the ruling elite, will receive astronomically higher incomes. On the one hand they will be the favoured group of officials, those who are  subservient to Ankara's wishes, and on the other hand there will be the lowly paid workers of the public and private sectors. These are the circumstances we face today. We do not believe there is an economic crisis in the north of the island - there is no such thing. Everything changes very fast in Cyprus.


With the solution of the Cyprus problem and with the economic integration, everything I have already mentioned will change. For us the solution of the Cyprus problem is the key to a solution of all the problems. Even the confidence building measures will bring economic relief. According to economic studies which have been made, after the return of Famagusta there will be a need for two billion euros for the reconstruction of the city. An injection of two billion will create tremendous economic development. The operation of the port of Famagusta under the EU's supervision will be the answer to all those who mislead the world by talking about 'isolation'. On the other hand however it will constitute a big movement for the development of trade.


We stress that the fact that the solution of the Cyprus problem and the reunification of the island and the economic integration will bring a solution to all the problems which we face today. The economic system in the north is characterised by technical crises because it is not based on strong foundations. The economy is not based on production.


(Q) - The Turkish Cypriots are citizens as much of the Republic of Cyprus as also of the European Union. Why do the European Union and the United Nations not react to the (Turkish) policy of political assimilation of the Turkish Cypriots? Why do the unions not undertake any initiatives in that direction?


(A) - In relation to this we have undertaken initiatives with reference to the European Union, through the European Parliament. I have personally had meetings with officials of the European Parliament. As you know, I am a member of the Executive Committee of ETUCE, representing Cyprus, and I periodically travel to Brussels where we often have meetings with European Parliament officials whom we brief on behalf of the unions. I had, for example, meetings with MEPs who are members of the contact group with Turkish Cypriots, but they have not displayed the slightest interest. As I said at the beginning, the balance of power contains the logic of ignoring the Turkish Cypriots. The United Nations and the administrative bodies of the European Union and of its member countries ignore the Turkish Cypriots. Fundamentally they are not even interested in the Cyprus problem. What does interest them is relations between Turkey and the European Union. It is all a matter of appraising trade relations where money talks, something which is alien to democratic discourse. The interests of the large countries are often a reason for displacing, or ignoring even, the interests of small countries and communities. We do however continue our representations on this matter. 


(Q) - In relation to the Republic of Cyprus?


(A) - I would have difficulties saying that the officials of the Republic of Cyprus make sufficient steps on this matter. We feel that government officials of the administration led by Mr Christofias do not promote a serious policy against those who impose on Cyprus the policy of assimilation of the Turkish Cypriot community. To give you one example, according to the Geneva Convention of 1949, the invasion and the subsequesnt colonisation of the occupied territories is considered to be a war crime. This can be the subject of a recourse to the International Court at the Hague only be countries involved. We have not seen the officials of the Republic of Cyprus, beyond just words, making any movement in this direction. I am referring always to the continuing colonisation in the north. We, as Turkish Cypriots, expect of the officials of the Republic of Cyprus to make a recourse to the international court at the Hague and to challenge Turkey at an international level. This would be a significant initiative. We as the Turkish Cypriot community can not have recourse to the International Court at the Hague because only countries have this right. The officials of the Republic of Cyprus have to undertake such an initiative which we have been anticipating for so long.


[Note: The fact that any matter brought to the International Court at the Hague will only be accepted if all countries involved in the case agree to it being considered, and that Turkey does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus and will certainly not accept such a case being heard - should be mentioned as being relevant]



(Q) - We only have about four minutes left so I would like to touch on a different matter as my last question. What role can the unions play from now on regarding efforts to solve the Cyprus problem and secondly, what do you consider to be the biggest obstacle in our moving towards a solution?


(A) - Our grouping represents unions with varying political views. In the large ones we believe that a solution of the Cyprus problem would solve all the problems. For a solution of the Cyprus problem we must begin with confidence building measures. The perpetuation of the talks has harmed the communities, and particularly the Turkish Cypriots.


As part of the policy of assimilation of the Turkish Cypriots, in addition to the importation of settlers, we have seen in recent years the large capital owners of Turkey making serious investments in the north. We see them investing in large hotels and other projects. This is a danger to Turkish Cypriot investments. Capital in the north has started changing hands.


In our progress towards a solution we expect to see serious initiatives. Famagusta is one of these. We believe that there must be significant steps towards rapprochement between the two communities.


The biggest obstacle to achieving a solution is the policy which Turkey is pursuing. The Turkish Governments are trying to prevent a solution while generating the impression that they want it. At the talks now we have Mr Eroglu who had previously always stated that he is against a solution. Today he presents himself as being in support of a solution, repeating that "we said yes while the Greek Cypriots said no to a solution". I remember well that Eroglu had gone from village to village, and from house to house in his efforts to prevent a solution. It does not matter who is talking - what does matter is who is hiding behind him. Eroglu is an employee who is following Turkey's instructions, and he has been told to appear in favour of a solution, but he acts in a way so as to prevent a solution. The Cyprus problem is one issue in relations between Turkey with the European Union. We Turkish Cypriots are hostages to this situation.


Turkey is not interested in the Turkish Cypriots but in the territory in the north and they usee this as a pretext. The survival of our community does not concern them. Turkey must put an end to this policy. It must make specific steps in the direction of a solution.


Beyond that, the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities must learn to cooperate. They must accept that they are all Cypriots and that they must live together on this island.


Thank you very much for being with us today.

(Ends)

Links to the Youtube videos of this item, with subtitles in English, will be inserted here once upload completes.

See previous articles and video on this blog at:

Turkey for Thanksgiving and Cyprus problem unresolved

http://aspectsofreality.blogspot.com/2009/11/turkey-for-thanksgiving-and-cyprus.html

Supporting Dissidents in Turkish occupied Cyprus

http://aspectsofreality.blogspot.com/2009/11/supporting-dissidents-in-turkish.html

Please add your name to support the petition on the web, placed online by Turkish Cypriots, and already signed by many of the leaders of the Turkish Cypriot movement:

http://www.turkishinvasioncyprus.com

Turkey for Thanksgiving and Cyprus problem unresolved

Turkish Cypriot Union protest Turkey's Policies


This blog-post is intended to highlight the discussion held in
the Euro Parliament yesterday 25th November 2009 to debate
the Report submitted by the Commission and EU Enlargement
Commissioner Olli Rehn about the EU's continuing negotiations
regarding Turkey's possible accession to the bloc 5 years after
it has failed to implement the Ankara Agreement which was part
of the terms for its commencing such a process.

View video of the European Parliament's discussion:



This comes during the week when Turkish Cypriot Unions staged
massive demonstrations outside both the Turkish Embassy in 'northern'
Cyprus and outside the 'parliament' of the vassal state it created by its
invasion of the island 35 years ago - as part of the expression of
indignation by indigenous Cypriots against the policies pursued by
the Republic of Turkey in Cyprus.

In addition to members of the Turkish Cypriot Teacher's Union, other
participants in the ongoing mobilisations against Turkey's policies on
the island include workers in the electricity and telephone unions as
well as those who work for the 'state' and for the 'municipalities', doctors,
nurses -- all the prestige sections of Turkish Cypriot society.

The video immediately below is from the 29th October demonstrations
which saw 19 people arrested:



The video immediately below is from the even larger 23rd November
demonstration during which tear gas was used by 'the authorities'
during which 17 people were arrested.



The section below provides an extensive translation from a particular
episode of the Cyprus Broadcasting Coropration's Biz-Emeis bilingual
Greek-Turkish programme, broadcast on 16th November.

The passage which is most relevant to bring to the attention of the world,
and to members of the European Parliament - as the EU prepares for the
December EU Leader's Summit which is to decide on the future of
Turkey's accession process in the light of the 'lack of progress in
normalising relations with the Republic of Cyprus'

... is the following:

"... the message we want to send out through our actions in
the north is directed against Turkey. Because the ones who
impose the policy of assimilation and integration is none
other than the Republic of Turkey. On the one hand it tells
the whole world that it desires a solution on the island yet
on the other it tries to assimilate and integrate the north
of the island."

The entirety of the interview is highly revealing of how educated
indigenous Cypriots who are of Turkish ethnicity feel about Turkey's
policies on Cyprus, and so the content of the videos embedded
below has been translated into English and is exclusively available
from this blog. Other publishers are encouraged to re-print the
content provided below.


Turkish Cypriot Unions protest Turkey's policies 1of3

(Turkish Cypriot Announcer): Good evening dear viewers.
We are with you again for the first programme of the week
with purely Cypriot matters. Our programme is proud that
from this first programme we are closely following current
events. So tonight we will deal with yet another current
matter, and in order to be better informed about the
problems which are being faced by trade unionists, we
have with us in the studio the Secretary General of KTÖS,
Mr. Şener Elcil and the Executive President of the Union,
Mr. Burak Maviş.


(Titles)


(Turkish Cypriot Interviewer): Good evening ladies and
gentlemen - during recent days we have seen the
intensification of union struggles in the Turkish Cypriot
community. There are strikes and demonstrations, and
as always in all the protests KTÖS is to be found in the
front line. We have with us in the studio the 'General
Secretary' of KTÖS, Mr Sener Ercil and the 'Organising
Secretary' of the union, Mr Burak Maviş, who will update
us on the aims of the unions and provide us with a first
assessment on the demonstrations which are taking place
(in the 'north') ... welcome.

(Greek Cypriot Interviewer): Welcome.


(Turkish Cypriot Interviewer): What are the aims of the
unions and why have they mobilised and become involved
in such intensive action? Are the reasons economic ones,
political ones, or are there other reasons?

(Şener Elcil): The reasons for the mobilisation are not
economic ones. These are political decisions which are
related to economic matters. As you know, there have
been systematic policies which are intended to achieve
integration of the north part of the island with Turkey, as
well as policies which are aimed at the assimilation of
the Turkish Cypriots.

Within the context of this policy, firstly the names of
Turkish Cypriot villages have been changed, forcing
Turkish Cypriots to take on new names.

Furthermore, all economic activities are directed by
Turkey. A vassal administration has been created in
the north of the island ... and because they had no faith
in the Turkish Cypriots they have transferred a numerically
greater number of people (from Turkey) making them
'citizens' and have thus undermined the political will of the Turkish Cypriots. Now there are efforts underway to make
the economy in the north of the island similar to that of Turkey.

Within the context of these efforts a law has been prepared.
This law had been prepared during the period when the
CTP (Republican People's Party) had been in power. Having
realised they couldn't impose this 'law' on the CTP they
went ahead with 'early elections'. With the advent to
power of the UBP (Party of National Unity), which,
obeying Turkey's instructions, is trying to enforce this
'law'.

Now, regarding the provisions of this 'law'- all new employees
in public service will start at half the salary. Though a new employee would have started on 1000 euros a month, this
will now be reduced to about 500 euros. I am talking about
the gross salary. Moreover, the salaries of existing
employees will be reduced by one third.

In parallel with this however, the salaries of those holding political office will be increased.

We therefore feel that this law is not based on economics
but on politics. In this way a political elite is created which
will implement Turkey's directives. All those will get good
salaries and will implement Turkey's policies while the rest,
and in particular the Turkish Cypriots who will not be able
to make ends meet with a low salary, will be forced to
emigrate from the island.

Consequently this is all about a law intended to create emigration of the Turkish Cypriots from the island.

For those who govern us, the significance is only the size
of the population, because with the policy of "A Turk leaves,
a Turk arrives" (a Turkish Cypriot leaves, a Turkish settler arrives) the Turkish Cypriots are of no importance to them.
This is a plan which is intended to destroy, to decimate, our community.

The rights of the unions are also abolished in collective bargaining. This is another way to close the unions because
it is the unions which resist such anti-democratic practices.

This 'law' consequently has political aims and that is the
reason why we are reacting with demonstrations and other actions.


(Question from Turkish Cypriot interviewer): Mr Maviş, the other day there was a big demonstration. Certain media downplayed this demonstration, saying for example that participation was minimal. How do you evaluate participation in the demonstration?

(Burak Maviş): It is natural for such events to be misrepresented in the media which are under the influence of the dominant side. Such information appeared in newspapers such as Kibris, Vatan and Volkan - newspapers which are dependent, and are being directed. The other newspapers did not convey such (misrepresented) news. On the contrary, they published articles and commentaries which showed the success and effectiveness of this demonstration.

At this point I would like to thank the Turkish Cypriot media
which support such demonstrations by the unions.

Participation in the demonstration, particularly among
the Turkish Cypriot teachers approached 99%.

Some of our members did not take part in the strike for
political reasons. Our position towards them will be
determined by the provisions of our charter.

Our strike was crowned with success due to the
participation also of the other unions. We had a large
march. Students of the Educational Academy, the
Turkish Cypriot equivalent of the Cyprus Pedagogical
Institute also participated in the march. There was a
large and enthusiastic procession.

Despite the fact that our 'Constitution' guarantees the right to
strike and to demonstrate, the 'police' blocked us.

(Question from Turkish Cypriot interviewer): they obstructed you?

(Burak Maviş): ... they set up roadblocks.

We continued with our march, we bypassed the roadblocks and marched towards the point where we were due to have our demonstration, in front of the 'Parliament' and we protested where we were supposed to. This disturbed certain circles. Such a confrontation, and our getting past the roadblocks disturbed the authorities and their supporters, and those who wish the assimilation of the Turkish Cypriots.

Our strike was successful.

I do not know how far such news will reach, however as long as Turkish Cypriot society remains determinedly (at our side) it will provide the appropriate answer to such news-reports.


(Question from Turkish Cypriot interviewer): Were charges brought against some of those who took part in the strike?

(Burak Maviş): Yes, and I am one of those.

19 participants in the demonstration have had charges brought against them for disrupting the task of 'the police' and for attacks against 'policemen'.

This is all about particular people who are in the front line.

Leading persons in the union, among which are included the Executive President of KTÖS, Guven Baroglu, were instructed to report to 'the police' headquarters where charges were brought against them.

As a result of these summonses, all 19 of us went to the headquarters with our banners. Once there we declared that we did not commit the offences with which we have been charged.

This is all about a fascist tactic, the same as was practised in Nazi Germany and in underdeveloped countries - something which we felt to have been the case in Cyprus from 1955 until 1974. Using the right to democratic action we provided, and will continue to provide, our response to such practices.

Such coercion can not intimidate the Turkish Cypriot teachers, the Turkish Cypriot working classes, or Turkish Cypriots generally.

(end section 1)
==================================
(start section 2)

Turkish Cypriot Unions protest Turkey's policies 2of3

(Question from Greek Cypriot interviewer): In your response earlier, you mentioned that underlying all these problems is the arrival of masses of settlers. I have had cause to ask you in the past, and I don't know if at this particular time there are specific numbers - how many settlers are there currently? Are such figures available?

(Şener Elcil): It is very difficult for anyone to know what the
population is in the north of the island. Different sources
provide varying figures as regards the population there.
It is said that it is about one million - in his statements
Talat has referred to 500,000 - officially it is put at 264,000
- I believe however that this is a misleading number.

When ones goes out in the streets one sees the difference.

According to one study which we carried out in schools two years ago - of the students in our schools, 37% are children of citizens of the Republic of Turkey, 19% are children of settlers who came to the island after 1974 and who have been registered as citizens, 9% are children of settlers who are married to Turkish Cypriots, 1% are children from third countries. Children whose parents are indigenous Turkish Cypriots make up 34% of our students.

This shows that only one third of our population in the north
are Turkish Cypriots.

Approaching your question from this perspective, and if we do accept that Turkish Cypriots in the north are 130,000 we must therefore be talking about a population three times that.

Consequently it is not possible to talk about a specific
number ... but when we present these factors, as scientifically proven - we evoke a terse response - this is a matter which disturbs those who seek assimilation of the Turkish Cypriots.

Whoever does talk, or refer to such matters, does so at risk to their life.

As a result, the population of the north is unknown.

At a time when there are negotiations between our leaders, and if as a result of these we do proceed to a referendum, we as a union of Turkish Cypriot teachers demand, as we have incidentally also done in the past - that there should be a census of the population overseen by foreign observers.

I wish to stress that if there are to be those who will decide
on a solution and the future of our island, these should be the Cypriots.


(Question from Turkish Cypriot interviewer): As unions you
will of course naturally continue your industrial action.
Can you talk to us a little more about your plan of action?

(Şener Elcil): The north is entirely under Turkey's control and that of the government of the day.

We say this.

One of the reasons why on the day of the demonstration the 'police' attacked our comrades was because of a banner they were holding. This banner said that the Republic of Turkey is treating Cyprus as its province. We showed this banner in front of the Turkish Embassy. This disturbed them a lot.

Therefore the message we want to send out through our actions in the north is directed against Turkey. Because the ones who impose the policy of assimilation and integration is none other than the Republic of Turkey. On the one hand it tells the whole world that it desires a solution on the island yet on the other it tries to assimilate and integrate the north of the island.

Therefore, all our actions, and all our demonstrations, are
aimed at the officials of the Republic of Turkey. Behind all the attacksagainst us, the 'police interrogations', the attacks and the threats against us - is the government of the Republic of Turkey.

At this point I would like to give out the message that we will
continue our actions, the strikes and our demonstrations. We will wage our political struggle so that this 'legislation' will not be adopted, and if it is adopted we will continue until it is repealed.


(Question from Turkish Cypriot interviewer): According to some polls, people consider teachers to be in the category of those who are better-off and they do not understand why they should be on strike. How would you reply to that?

(Şener Elcil): The best organised and most militant union is the Teachers Union. That is how it has always been in the past, before the union was even created. In intra-communal clashes the teachers have always been at the forefront.


(Question from Greek Cypriot interviewer): To continue on from the question set by my colleague, and given what you have told us, other than your members who are participating en mass in these demonstrations - are there also simple Turkish Cypriots who are with you? Do they take part in your actions?

(Şener Elcil): We are not struggling alone. We have at our side the workers unions - the workers in the electricity and telephone unions as a common platform, there are those who work for the 'state' and workers in the municipalities, doctors, nurses -- all the prestige sections of society ... if you are asking why the teachers are doing this, the answer is that the teachers are not struggling for money ... the union of Turkish Cypriot Teachers is struggling for civil rights.

We are not involved in this struggle in order to improve our salaries or even our standard of living. We can achieve that if we do want to do that. We are affected however when the parents of the children we teach are working in bad conditions and are not adequately rewarded. The teachers are a part of society and as such we struggle for the welfare of the society, it defends its democratic rights and the creation of a social order where there is respect for human rights.

(end section 2)
------------------
(start section 3)

Turkish Cypriot Unions protest Turkey's policies 3of3

(Question from Greek Cypriot interviewer): We have only a
few minutes left - we would also like to know your future
plans. Given these actions which are already under way
- what will be your next steps? What will be your next
actions? Are there appeals?

(Burak Maviş): The struggle of the Turkish Cypriot
Teachers which started in 1968, with the understanding
that the problems of teachers are related to civil rights,
will continue into the future. Even though there are
economic reasons, our struggle is mainly a political one.
The efforts which began in 1955 and in 1974 led to the
de-facto division of the island and the separation of the
two communities, will continue into the future.

Turkey will continue to implement its policy of political assimilation of the Turkish Cypriots. Our union and the
Turkish Cypriot community will continue its struggle
against efforts to assimilate its identity, its culture, its
religious consciousness, its language (dialect) and the
social life of the Turkish Cypriots.

We will resist Turkey's efforts to implement the policy
which it implemented in Hatagi when it annexed it to
Turkey in 1939. We understood a long time ago that
we will not achieve our goal through 'elections' to
'parliament' and the kind of discussions which have
occurred from 1974 to this day.

In the north of the country there is a policy of "get up
get up - sit down sit down" ... there are those who
give the orders and those who implement them. The
elections are simply intended to choose those who
will implement the orders.

We know that the essential problem is that Ankara is
behind all the interventions which occur in the Turkish
Cypriot community. In setting our direction and our
actions we strive through strikes and demonstrations
to increasingly realise our society, to bring it with our
part so we can continue our struggle by projecting a
more radical and dynamic position.


(Question from Greek Cypriot interviewer): In closing,
during the last few seconds, will these actions continue,
and to what extent are you determined to implement
even more dynamic measures? Very quickly

(Şener Elcil): We are determined.

I do want to clearly lay down an important distinction.

As a Turkish Cypriot, when I cross into the south, I am
treated as a Turk. When I cross into the north I am
regarded as a Cypriot. I am first and foremost a Turkish
Cypriot. This must be understood. I want to remind
everyone in Cyprus that they must respect the struggle
which the Turkish Cypriots are involved with in the north.
We have been waging this struggle for many years now,
for the survival of our community, to not be assimilated
and we will continue this struggle to the end.


(Turkish Cypriot interviewer): We thank you, and I wish
you good luck with your struggle.

(Greek Cypriot interviewer): We thank you very much,
and we hope that your struggle will be productive.

Turkish Cypriot Newspapers 24th Nov 2009