Feb 24, 2023
In February 2023, Utrop published an interview with attorney Servet Yildiz Stêrk, where he shared his work on earthquake relief for Turkey and his thoughts on the Norwegian-Turkish community in Norway.
Stêrk explained how he, in collaboration with the Alevi Faith Community in Norway, organized a fundraising campaign to aid the earthquake victims. He also coordinated lobbying efforts with Norwegian politicians and media to raise awareness of the situation.
In the interview, Stêrk raised concerns about the situation of minorities and the opposition in Turkey, fearing that aid would not reach the most needy due to widespread corruption. As part of the efforts, he met with members of the Norwegian Parliament to discuss easing the visa requirements for family members of Norwegian citizens affected by the earthquake.
Stêrk also expressed concern about the polarization within the Norwegian-Turkish community: "I find that there is a great fear of expressing open criticism of the government in Turkey within the Norwegian-Turkish community. It is regrettable to see that many Turks in Norway who wish to criticize the Turkish government and its policies are often pressured by pro-government groups."
At the same time, he pointed to a growing awareness within the Turkish community in Norway about human rights, freedom of expression, and democracy, which was strengthened after the earthquake disaster. He believed that more people of Turkish origin in Norway are now confronting discrimination and human rights violations in Turkey.
Stêrk concluded by emphasizing the importance of a safe environment for critical thinking and exchange of ideas within the Norwegian-Turkish community in Norway.