A Turkish journalist and author known for her critical writings on politics and human rights, particularly in the Middle East, offering a unique perspective on the region's complexities.
Ece Temelkuran is a name synonymous with fearless journalism and unflinching critiques of power. As a renowned Turkish journalist and author, she has spent her career exposing the dark underbelly of politics and championing human rights, earning her numerous awards and accolades.
Born on July 22, 1973, in Izmir, Turkey, Temelkuran was destined for a life of activism. She embarked on her journalism career as a columnist for Milliyet, a prominent Turkish newspaper, and later moved to Habertrk, where she became a household name. Her columns were syndicated globally, appearing in publications such as The Guardian, New York Times, and Le Monde Diplomatique, cementing her reputation as a leading voice in international journalism.
Temelkuran's unrelenting pursuit of truth has often put her at odds with the Turkish government. She was fired from Habertrk in 2012 after writing scathing articles critical of the government's handling of the Uludere massacre. This experience only galvanized her resolve, and she continued to speak truth to power, earning her the respect and admiration of her peers.
Temelkuran's literary career is marked by a series of critically acclaimed novels and non-fiction books. Her 2008 novel, Deep Mountain, Across the Turkish-Armenian Divide, is a powerful exploration of the Turkish-Armenian conflict. Her subsequent books, including Turkey: The Insane and the Melancholy and Women Who Blow On Knots, have garnered international recognition and accolades.
In 2019, Temelkuran published her groundbreaking book, How to Lose a Country: The 7 Steps from Democracy to Dictatorship, which examines the alarming rise of right-wing populism globally. This work has been hailed as a timely and essential guide for progressives seeking to counter the forces of authoritarianism.
In 2021, Temelkuran published Together: 10 Choices for a Better Now, a beacon of hope in challenging times. This inspiring work champions the power of human connection and collective action in creating a more just and equitable world.
Ece Temelkuran's unwavering commitment to journalism, human rights, and social justice has inspired a generation of writers, activists, and thinkers. Her courage in the face of adversity has earned her a special place in the hearts of those who believe in the power of the human voice to shape a better world.
74 Years Old
A Turkish-American novelist, screenwriter, and academic, known for blending historical and cultural elements in his literary works, which often explore the complexities of Turkish identity and history.
89 Years Old
A prominent Turkish writer, known for her influential novels and short stories that often explored themes of social justice, feminism, and Turkish identity. Her works are considered classics of modern Turkish literature.
Born in 1915
A renowned Turkish writer and satirist, known for his humorous and critical writings that often targeted political and social issues, earning him both praise and controversy.