The Turkish Trade Ministry has filed a lawsuit to dissolve Anadolu Kültür, a not-for-profit institution operating since 2002. Anadolu Kültür is a cultural agency that brings together artists and the public, in the spirit of mutual understanding and respect for difference, by way of social projects emphasizing cultural diversity as well as artistic expression and training. Its closure would deprive audiences of a popular cultural platform and impact negatively a large number of art professionals.The Ministry alleges that the organization’s activities go “against public order or the field of operation of the business” on the grounds that it “carries out its activities without profit, similar to associations and foundations”. This is the first such lawsuit filed in Turkey’s history and represents a clear attempt to instrumentalize the country’s commercial code as a weapon to silence cultural dialogue and thwart freedom of expression. It sets an ominous precedent for all those whose opinions do not reflect a particular government's views. AICA stands in solidarity with Anadolu Kültür and condemns the pending termination lawsuit against it as an unambiguous example of lawfare. We call upon the Turkish government and especially the Minister of Trade to reconsider this decision, which goes against the interests of so many Turkish citizens.
Lisbeth Rebollo-Gonçalves, AICA International President
Rafael Cardoso, AICA Chair of Censorship and Freedom of Expression Committee
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