In Pretoria, South Africa on 15 July 2025, the Maarif Foundation South Africa and the Yunus Emre Institute, in collaboration with the University of Pretoria, hosted a timely panel discussion focused on how democracies can resist unconstitutional changes of government. Using the events of the 15 July 2016 coup attempt in Türkiye as a reference point, the event offered meaningful reflections on democratic resilience across the African continent.
In her address, Turkish Ambassador Nilvana Darama Yıldırımgeç emphasised that Türkiye’s experience carries valuable lessons that extend beyond its borders and underscore the importance of safeguarding democracy everywhere.
Key takeaways from the 2016 coup attempt include:
• Democracy must be protected not only by governments but by citizens themselves
• Unity remains a nation’s greatest strength
• The coup revealed the dangers of illegal groups infiltrating state institutions
• Strong leadership and a free media are vital for democratic survival
• Democracy is never guaranteed. It must be defended continuously by every generation
This is not only a message for Türkiye but a global reminder.
“Never take democracy for granted.”
Ambassador Yıldırımgeç further stated that in today’s interconnected world, threats to democracy are rarely contained within borders. She cautioned that some individuals involved in the 2016 coup continue to operate abroad, often under the guise of education, media, or civil society organisations. Their goal, she said, is to distort public opinion and undermine Türkiye’s democracy.
“Remember. Democracy is not something we inherit. It is something we must build, protect, nurture, and defend every day.”
by Marion Kate
