Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, a key political figure and leader of one of Europe’s largest cities, has been an advocate for democratic values and international cooperation. His arrest, along with at least two others in the Istanbul metropolitan area, just days before a crucial electoral period, raise concerns about the state of democracy and local governance in Turkey.
Local governments play a vital role in upholding democratic principles, fostering inclusion, and delivering essential services to citizens. Across Europe, mayors and city leaders have expressed solidarity with Istanbul, reaffirming their commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and the ability of elected representatives to serve their communities free from political pressure.
“European mayors stand side by side with the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu,” says Burkhard Jung, President of Eurocities and Mayor of Leipzig. “His detention is the latest in a series of actions aimed at undermining his political leadership and his role as mayor. Turkey must uphold democratic principles.”
The decision to arrest Mayor İmamoğlu is the latest in a series of politically motivated attacks on a member of the opposition in Turkey, designed to undermine his potential nomination as President of the country’s Republican People’s Party. The mayor was previously put on trial in 2022 for allegedly insulting a public official.
European mayors stand side by side with the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu
“Democracy is under attack in many ways today,” says Mathias De Clercq, Eurocities Shadow Commissioner for Democracy, and Mayor of Ghent. “Any attempt to silence opposition voices through judicial and political manoeuvres undermines the very foundation of free and fair elections in a democratic society. European governments must not turn a blind eye to this blatant attempt to erode democracy at the EU’s borders.”
Eurocities has long supported strong partnerships with Istanbul, recognising its role as a major European city and a bridge between cultures. Meetings in Istanbul have highlighted the shared challenges cities face, including democratic governance, economic development, and social cohesion. The current situation underscores the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in safeguarding democratic values and the autonomy of local governments.
Democracy is under attack in many ways today
Cities are at the forefront of addressing societal challenges and fostering innovation; their leaders must be free to serve their communities without undue interference. Cities remain key actors in defending democratic principles, and addressing societal challenges. Their voices must be heard in shaping the future of democratic governance across Europe and beyond.
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Last year, Eurocities politicians signed a statement, the values that unite us, to symbolise their belief that democratic legitimacy is a bedrock of European values and collaboration.
