Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan revealed how emotionally stuck he is with the Gezi Park protests that took place all throughout the month of June across the nation, when women with a collective voice argued that Erdogan’s policies are aimed at further strengthening a well-anchored patriarchal value system in Turkish society. That system is working against women who dream of living in a country where gender equality prevails, and freedom is not only a topic of intellectual discussion but a way of life.
“They are saying I am interfering in their lives when I call on women to have at least three children,” Erdogan said, addressing a large crowd on Aug. 8 at his Justice and Development Party’s (AKP) Istanbul provincial office. “We have not imposed a legal obligation for this. This is something optional. But I, as a prime minister, am recommending three children. This is my most natural right. We’re not holding a gun to anybody’s head [to have three children].” Erdogan went on to say: “I am calling on those sisters who are devoted to our cause. Come, please donate to this nation at least three children.”
