As President of the European Coalition of Cities Against Racism (ECCAR), I express my deepest solidarity with Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu of Istanbul and Mayor Resul Emrah Şahan of Şişli, an ECCAR member city. At a time when democratic values and the autonomy of local governments are under pressure, it is essential to stand united in defending the principles of democracy and human rights.
The recent developments in Istanbul are alarming. Any attempt to undermine the democratic will of the people threatens not only the city’s governance but also the very foundation of democratic societies across Europe and beyond. Local governments play a crucial role in upholding democratic values. Interference with their independence is a challenge to these fundamental principles.
As President of ECCAR, I stand in solidarity with the elected representatives of Istanbul and our member city Şişli. Many ECCAR mayors from across Europe already expressed their solidarity (Athens, Barcelona, Berlin, Brussels, Cologne, Ghent, Helsinki, Leipzig, Münster, Paris, Rome, Strasbourg, Valencia, Wrocław). Our shared commitment to democratic governance unites us in rejecting any attempt to weaken the autonomy of local administrations. A functioning democracy and the rule of law are the bedrock upon which societies can ensure that all people feel safe and valued. Without these pillars, we cannot guarantee the rights and freedoms that allow everyone, regardless of their background, to thrive in peace and security.
Democracy must never be taken for granted. It is built and defended every day by those who believe in freedom, equality, and justice. When the democratic rights of one city or one leader are threatened, it concerns us all.
Benedetto Zacchiroli
President of ECCAR
