Suzy Hansen – Turkey in the Age of Erdoğan
Summary
Host Vas Christodoulou interviews author Susie Hansen about her book on Turkey’s transformation under Erdogan. They discuss his rise from rural roots, initial popularity driven by economic development, and the complex integration of Syrian refugees in Istanbul. The conversation traces his shift toward authoritarianism, fueled by political crises and construction-driven corruption, culminating in a broken economy and fading public support. Hansen argues against simplistic narratives, urging listeners to understand the nuanced history behind Turkey’s current political landscape.
Topics discussed
Intro and KeyBank advertisement
Introduction to Susie Hansen and her book
First impressions of Istanbul and the headscarf debate
The Armenian genocide and liberal opening in 2007
Choosing Karagümrük: Syrian refugees and the Muhtar
Atatürk's vision of Turkishness and exclusion
Erdogan's early popularity and economic improvements
Erdogan's appeal to the West and Kurdish peace talks
Syrian integration in Karagümrük and economic shifts
The 2018 economic crash and anti-Syrian violence
Gezi Park protests and the rise of authoritarianism
Shopify and meningitis advertisements
Silicon Valley Bank and First Citizens Bank ad
Turkey as a warning sign for global democracy
Why protests failed and the opposition's stagnation
The end of Erdoganism and lessons for the future
Outro and Disney+ advertisements
Listen ad-free on Castria