IAPC fordert Freilassung von Necati Özkan

Die International Association of Political Consultants hat anlässlich des ersten Jahrestages der ungerechtfertigten Inhaftierung von Necati Özkan, den sie im vergangenen Jahr mit der Demokratie-Medaille ausgezeichnet hat, einen Appell an die Behörden gerichtet. 

In der Erklärung wurde betont, dass Necati Özkan aufgrund seiner Rolle bei der Leitung der Wahlkampagnen des Bürgermeisters der Stadt Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, inhaftiert wurde. Es wurde hervorgehoben, dass er während seiner über 30-jährigen Karriere daran gearbeitet hat, einen Beitrag zur Demokratie zu leisten, und verschiedene Kandidaten, politische Parteien sowie zivilgesellschaftliche Organisationen beraten hat. 

Die IAPC unterstrich, dass Necati Özkan unverzüglich freigelassen werden müsse und dass politische Beratung ein legitimer und unverzichtbarer Bestandteil des demokratischen Lebens sei.

Vollständige Pressemitteilung:

IAPC Calls for the Release of Democracy Medal Recipient Necati Özkan

Marks One Year Since His Arrest by Turkish Authorities

19, March 2026

Washington, D.C. — The International Association of Political Consultants (IAPC) marks one year since the arrest of Necati Özkan, a distinguished political consultant with a global career and long-standing professional reputation, and a recipient of the Association’s 2025 Democracy Medal.

Mr. Özkan was detained in Türkiye in connection with his role in managing the election campaigns of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, who is widely regarded as a prominent political figure and a presidential contender.

Over more than three decades, Mr. Özkan has contributed to democratic processes across borders, advising candidates, political parties, and civil society organizations in complex political environments. His work has earned him international recognition and the respect of peers and institutions worldwide. As an honorary board member of the IAPC, he represents the highest standards of ethical and professional political consulting.

The IAPC awarded Necati Özkan its Democracy Medal in 2025 during its Annual Conference in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, in recognition of his sustained commitment to democratic values and professional excellence.

“Necati Özkan’s case goes beyond an individual,” said Marko Rakar, President of the IAPC. “It speaks to the space in which democratic professionals are allowed to operate. Advising candidates, shaping campaigns, and enabling citizens to engage in the electoral process are not crimes—they are essential functions of a democratic system. His continued detention raises serious concerns about the protection of these principles.”

The IAPC reaffirms that professional political advisory is a legitimate and indispensable component of democratic life. Political consultants play a critical role in structuring public debate, strengthening electoral competition, and enabling informed civic participation.

The Association calls for the immediate restoration of Necati Özkan’s freedom and for the full guarantee of his right to continue his professional work without intimidation or restriction.

The IAPC further underscores the importance of due process, judicial independence, and the protection of democratic norms that safeguard both political participation and professional freedom.

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