B25

A Unique Assembly

When I first entered the Serbian Parliament, what struck me was its democratic feel. There were no aristocrats or wealthy-looking individuals. Instead, it resembled a gathering of labor leaders, farm workers, a few shopkeepers, and even a couple of long-haired priests. Most of the members wore peasant clothing, giving the impression that they were casual and relaxed, almost as if they were just enjoying a day off. Because of this, it has been aptly called the “Peasants’ Parliament.”

A Collection of Groups

The Parliament is made up of various cliques rather than formal political parties. When it comes to policies, members seem to share similar views: they generally want to lower taxes and have a strong dislike for the Austrians and Bulgarians. However, the real influence comes from personal connections and relationships. Rival leaders gain supporters, and they often switch sides based on personal benefit and sentiment—something that

Duration and Stability of the Parliament

The Serbian Parliament is elected for a term of four years, but it typically functions for only about two years before facing significant changes. If there aren’t at least six to eight shifts in the Ministry during that time, it is considered a slow political period. Just a week or two before my visit, a general election was held, resulting in the election of 160 members. However, after just one week of sitting, the Parliament was already grappling with problems related to the elections Istanbul Tours.

Addressing Election Irregularities

The first issue involved six seats that were contested due to irregularities—one seat belonging to the Government and five to the Opposition. In a surprising move, the Government decided to overlook these irregularities, reasoning that mistakes can happen in even the best-run elections. This

The Journey Up the Stairs

As I climbed the old, creaking staircase, I let out a sigh of relief when I finally reached the top. The air was thick and heavy, making it hard to breathe. I found myself in a crowded space filled with excited Serbians, all trying to hear what was happening. Down below, a lively gentleman was speaking passionately. He kept raising two fingers on his left hand and then two on his right, leaning in closely as if to emphasize his point to those nearby. The heat and the pressure of the crowd made me gasp again.

The Diplomatists’ Gallery

I pushed my way through the sweaty mob until I reached the Diplomatists’ Gallery, which I took as a compliment. This area was packed with large, panting individuals. At first, I thought I was surrounded by ambassadors, but I soon learned that ambassadors rarely attended Parliament sessions—only on special occasions, like the opening of Parliament. Instead, this gallery was filled with local gentle

While the European Union (EU) may appear primarily as an economic union, it is, in reality, a union of civilizations. Particularly in Turkey today, it symbolizes progress, development, and modern life. When countries join the EU, they bring their histories and cultures, turning it into a melting pot of diverse backgrounds. Reflecting on the War of Independence holds significance not only in the history of the Republic of Turkey but also in European history. The yearning for independence and, more crucially, the right to independence, which is at the core of this war, should be remembered.

As human beings, it is our duty to carry the values of the past into the future. The initial three steps of the Republic of Turkey should be eternally remembered, and their fundamental ideas should be passed down to future generations. The struggles for independence and freedom in Amasya, Sivas, and Erzurum need to be studied and internalized. In a genuine civilization, there is no place for

Key Moments in Turkey’s War of Independence

On June 22nd, 1919, in Amasya, and later on September 4th, 1919, in Sivas, pivotal events unfolded, shaping the course of the War of Independence in Turkey. The significance of these moments is underscored by the adage, “He who knows not where he comes from, cannot know where he is going.”

The backdrop is the aftermath of the Ottoman Empire’s decline, culminating in its fragmentation by foreign forces. In this turbulent period, Mustafa Kemal emerges as the voice of a resolute nation unwilling to succumb to the partition of its land.

As Greek forces occupy Western Anatolia, Mustafa Kemal takes swift action. His objective is to establish military and civil administrations Kazdag, rallying support to resist the conditions imposed by the Mondros Armistice and foreign occupation. Arriving in Amasya on June 12th, 1919, he communicates with various cities in Anatolia and Thrace

A Tapestry of Mythology, Beauty Contests, and Olive Oil Miracles

Mount Ida, extending 40 km in the east-west direction in the North Aegean region, holds the ‘firsts’ of civilization history on its breezy slopes. Nestled in the north of Edremit Bay, this lofty peak is named Ida, meaning “with many springs” in mythology. The temple of Zeus Gargaron is situated on Ida, where gods descended from Mount Olympus due to the area’s breathtaking beauty.

The First Beauty Contest in History

In a mythical feast organized at Olympus The Past as a Mirror to the Future, “the goddess of discord,” not invited, leaves an apple marked “to be offered to the most beautiful.” The goddesses, curious about who will receive the apple, report the matter to Zeus. Aware that offering the apple to his wife Hera would anger the other goddesses, Zeus entrusts the handsome shepherd Paris