42 years ago, Iranians voted in referendum for Islamic republic. I expressed my disagreement by giving handwritten note, warning these potential consequences of religious-based government. Today, Iran is facing economic challenges, with that significant devaluation of currency and high costs of living.
Previously, the exchange rate was 7 Iranian toman to $1. However, currently, the exchange rate is 55,000 toman to $1, indicating a significant devaluation of the currency. This has led to the Iranian toman being considered almost worthless in comparison.
In terms of salaries, my father’s income has increased from 3,000 toman to 3.2 million toman after a 115 percent raise. This amounts to a thousandfold increase. Despite this significant increase in income, many people in Iran are still struggling to afford basic necessities like meat or chicken.
Powerful families and tribes in Iran have been accused in articles and court cases of amassing vast wealth through corrupt means. This accumulation of wealth, often amounting to billions of dollars, exacerbates income inequality and undermines the political stability of society and the economy.
The significant devaluation of the Turkish lira against the US dollar, from approximately 2 Turkish lira to 1 dollar when the Justice and Development Party (AKP) came to power, to the current exchange rate of 19.81 Turkish lira to 1 dollar, indicates similar economic situation in Turkey.
The devaluation of a currency can have implications for a country’s economy, including potential impacts on inflation, import costs, and the purchasing power of its citizens and poverty level.
During my time in beautiful Izmir. The preference for foreign currencies by some businesses and landlords, as well as the complaints about non-stop inflation from my dentist and educated friend, indicate the impact of economic factors on daily life in Turkey.
Inflation can have significant effects on a country’s economy, including the rising cost of goods and services, as well as the erosion of purchasing power which necessarily will result in increasing poverty. This can particularly affect vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, who may face difficulties in meeting their basic needs.
When elderly people have to resort to begging or selling small items to survive, it shows that they are experiencing significant economic hardships. These observations emphasize the need to address economic issues and implement policies that can reduce poverty, enhance social welfare, and stabilize the economy. Change in leadership and effective policies are crucial for improving the situation.
When journalists and the Turkish Ministry of Justice tried to expose corruption within the AKP government, authorities close to Erdogan attacked and prosecuted them. This included journalists, judges, prosecutors, and police who were involved in the investigation. The actions taken against them undermined press freedom and the independence of the judiciary.
The 1982 Turkish Constitution provides for the rights of freedom of thought and that everyone may express and disseminate their thoughts and opinions by speech, in writing or in pictures, or through other media, individually or collectively. Now laws in (AKP) Erdogan Turkey are turning it into one of the world’s worst places for journalists. This is how the population will stay in dark and pay the price of authority’s corruption by increasing poverty.
If governments anywhere in the world, at any point in history, are managed by religion-based groups, there is a risk that they will become susceptible to corruption and exhibit authoritarian tendencies.
Additionally, the concentration of power within a religious elite can lead to a lack of checks and balances, fostering an environment conducive to corruption. Without strong oversight mechanisms, accountability measures, and respect for democratic principles, religious leaders or institutions may exploit their positions for personal gain, eroding public trust and damaging the overall governance system.
The current situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran has caused many Iranians from my generation to feel regretful and disillusioned about their past decision to support it. They now see it as a misguided and uninformed choice, realizing that it has led to negative consequences.
Turkey differs from Iran in that it has the enduring legacy of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, a figure widely regarded as a hero who championed secular values. Ataturk’s influence and the principles he established, such as the separation of religion and politics, have had a lasting impact on Turkish society.
While Turkey has experienced a vibrant democracy with periodic elections, there are apprehensions that the increasing religious influence on the political landscape may limit the space for diverse voices and perspectives. Such limitations can restrict the ability of individuals to exercise their democratic rights fully and make informed choices based on their own convictions and interests.
Maintaining a balance between religious values and secular principles is a delicate task, and striking the right balance is crucial for preserving the pluralistic fabric of Turkish society. It is essential for the Turkish people to remain vigilant, engage in open dialogue, and actively participate in the democratic process to safeguard their values and protect the principles established by Ataturk.
Turks are navigating their own path, but are concerns that influence of religion combined with at corruption, puts their votes at disadvantage and will negatively impact their lives. This influence, seen as shadow, has potential to compromise their well-being.
