Statement on the effects of current events on student mobility activities in Turkey

 

The recent developments in Turkey, France and Belgium has sparked global discussions concerning the security and safety of citizens in Europe. As Erasmus Student Network (ESN), a network of 39 countries in Europe that aims to facilitate intercultural student exchange, we would like to clarify the current state of Turkey and its effects on student mobility.

 

As you all might know, on the evening of the 15th of July, a faction of the Turkish Armed Forces attempted to stage a coup in various cities of Turkey. Both the police and public prosecutors immediately took necessary measures to fail the attempt. Like France and Belgium, which recently faced similar incidents and threats, the Turkish Government announced a 90-day State of Emergency on the 20th of July in accordance with the Turkish Constitution.

 

"Despite high security measures, the Erasmus+ programme will continue as scheduled" said the Turkish National Agency in a letter sent to all National Agency Directors last week.

 

According to the statement of the Turkish NA, there is no difficulty at all for participants from other countries to participate in mobilities and project activities in Turkey.  There are also no restrictions or risks pertaining to the execution of Erasmus+ activities in Turkey from a security viewpoint and these activities are being carried out as scheduled. The NA is regularly undertaking the Programme implementation and the work of the NA has been continuing as scheduled.

 

As the European Commission declares, it will continue to monitor closely the developments but has determined  that, for the time being, the programmes can continue. Member States have however been asked to make their own assessment whether to proceed, postpone or cancel mobilities, still respecting the implementation of Erasmus+. Students traveling to or from Turkey on Erasmus+ programme are asked to communicate with their respective home institutions and host institution to obtain more information regarding different options.

 

All the local sections of Erasmus Student Network Turkey (ESN Turkey) will continue to welcome students as usual. Life in Turkey has no extraordinary circumstances except for the cancellation of some public events. We are ready to help all international students and provide them with a great experience in Turkey. The orientation weeks, trips and cultural exchange events will be carried out as scheduled.

 

As ESN Turkey, we stay committed to representing the interest of international students in Turkey through the principles of Students-Helping-Students. We will continue to work in cooperation with the National Agency of Turkey, and to keep students travelling to and from Turkey informed about the state of student mobility.