Kamil Pasha

Photo from Milliyet

Sulukule is the centuries-old Romani (gypsy) district that dates back to Byzantine times. It is one of the oldest Romani settlements in Europe. In a recent speech, Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan called Sulukule “ugly”, presumably justifying its impending demolition and replacement by upscale housing projects. (Also see my March 2 blog entry on Sulukule). Its residents will be evicted and another culturally distinct historic neighborhood will disappear into thin air. Residents have appealed for the district to be rehabilitated, not torn down and an international movement to save Sulukule has been active for a few years.

A further important question remains as to whether the needed archaeological survey will be made before new construction begins, as Sulukule is just inside the Byzantine city walls and dates back to Byzantine times. See photo below. (Click here for the article)

Recently, the US Helsinki Commission sent a letter to Turkey’s prime minister, expressing concern for Sulukule’s Romani residents. (Click here for the letter). Excerpts from the letter:

We write to express our concern about the Sulukule urban transformation project developed by the Fatih and Greater Istanbul municipalities. It is our understanding that six districts in Istanbul including Sulukule, have been chosen to undergo urban transformation as part of the 2010 European Capitol of Culture. While we understand the need to preserve many historical landmarks in Istanbul, we are deeply troubled that Sulukule, home to a Roma community since 1054 and one of the oldest Romani settlements in Europe, is on the brink of total demolition and will be replaced with new villa style homes. The unfortunate outcome of this urban renewal project will not only destroy this historic neighborhood, but will force 3,500 Sulukule residents 40 kilometers outside of the city to the district of Tasoluk or onto the streets.

….The Romani residents of Sulukule have essentially been unable to work since 1992, when the municipality closed down the music and entertainment venues that had been the lifeblood of the community and a major tourist attraction. With this source of income gone, the Roma of Sulukule have found it increasingly difficult to earn a living.

We understand that the residents of Sulukule have been offered the opportunity to purchase the new homes that will be built as part of the project. However, we are advised that the homes are quite expensive and, given the Romani community’s lack of employment and income, this is an empty gesture. We also understand that the offer of housing in Tasoluk, some 40 kilometers outside of Istanbul, is also well beyond the means of the current residents of Sulukule, making it all the more likely that the majority of them will be forced to live on the streets.

Signatories: Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission), and Co-Chairman Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), along with Helsinki Commissioners Congressmen Joseph R. Pitts (R-PA), and G.K. Butterfield (D-NC)

Below, the Byzantine land walls around Istanbul and Sulukule (scroll right):

Tags: Culture, Istanbul, Rights //