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Ara Qochunyan: Religious Minorities in Turkey Have No Definite Approach Towards the Constitutional Changes (EXCLUSIVE)

© BBC/ RENGIN ARSLAN


“Armedia” IAA presents an exclusive interview with editor-in-chief of “Zhamanak” Daily Newspaper operating in Turkey, Ara Qochunyan on constitutional referendum to be held on April 16.

 

- Mr. Qochunyan, what atmosphere is in Turkey? How can you assess the process of the campaign?

- The campaign was quite active. All the political forces – the authorities and the opposition, as well as different circles of the society with active involvement in this process expressed their stance on the constitutional changes. Large rallies took place in almost all cities of the country, in major cities those rallies were attended by a great number of people.

In general, the media with its different approaches, with hosting political leaders and experts contributed that the people had elementary perception on the expected constitutional changes. It can be said that it is quite polarized atmosphere in Turkey and in such a situation the people on Sunday will go to the polling stations to express their final approach towards the constitutional changes.

  

What is the approach of religious, ethnic minorities of Turkey towards these changes?

- There is pluralism among the society. There is no absolute approach. This is the case also with minorities. In Turkey minorities are the small models of the large society, they are affected by different currents, events, groupings. Thus among the minorities there are also different segments – a part is in favor of these changes and a part has certain reservations. I think that as citizens of this country, everyone should go to the ballot boxes and cast their voice – in favor or against, as they consider it right.  

 

- If the constitutional changes are confirmed, do you think that there will be changes in the policy of the Turkish authorities towards minorities?

- No, there is not such a concern. If the constitutional changes are confirmed, quite a good atmosphere will be created for the approach of the current authorities. Everyone knows the approach of the current authorities towards minorities. You know that during these authorities serious reforms have taken place in the lives of religious minorities and this optimistic course can be continued.

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