The messy politics of boycotting. CHP’s boycott campaign

The CHP’s boycott campaign in Turkey is a response to the recent arrest and suspension of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and other opposition figures, which the CHP views as a politically motivated crackdown by the government. Here are key points about the campaign:

Background

• Triggering Event: The campaign was initiated following the detention of İmamoğlu and hundreds of other opposition members on March 19, 2025. İmamoğlu is seen as a leading contender against President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in future elections67.

• Protests: Widespread protests have been ongoing across Turkey, with tens of thousands participating despite bans. The protests have been marked by clashes with police and significant public support56.

Boycott Details

• Targeted Entities: The CHP has listed several companies and media outlets for boycott, including:

  • EspressoLab (coffee chain)

  • D&R and İdefix (bookstores)

  • Demirören Group and Turkuvaz Media (media conglomerates)

  • CNN Türk (broadcaster)

  • Kilim Mobilya (furniture)

  • Misli and iddaa (betting services)

  • ETS Tur Travel Company (linked to the tourism minister)18.

• Reasons for Boycott: The CHP argues that these entities are either aligned with the government or have failed to adequately cover the protests, thereby distorting public perception24.

Impact and Reactions

• Immediate Effects: The boycott has had immediate impacts, with some targeted businesses experiencing disruptions. For example, D&R’s website went offline shortly after the boycott call, citing maintenance1.

• Government Response: Erdoğan has vowed to take legal action against what he terms “economic sabotage,” while AKP officials have labeled the boycott as “political bullying”3.

• Public Support: The campaign has gained significant public support, with many calling for sustained economic pressure against pro-government businesses14.

Strategic Goals

• Sustaining Momentum: The CHP aims to maintain public pressure and momentum through the boycott, which is seen as a non-violent means of resistance against perceived government overreach14.

• Economic Pressure: By targeting businesses linked to the government, the CHP seeks to add economic pressure to a country already facing economic challenges like inflation and currency instability1.