A very personal message to one of my best friends: Necati Özkan
Dear Necati,
We are friends for decades, and since we first met, our friendship has been characterized by mutual respect and great mutual appreciation.
Throughout all these years, our focus has been on the positive development of democracy in all regions of the world. Your work has played a major role in the development of many countries. At the same time, however, we also see that democracy is increasingly under threat. It is precisely this circumstance that has strengthened our joint work in our European Association of Political Consultants throughout all this time.
Last March, we learned that your great work for democracy and for the good of the people is not viewed equally by everyone. None of us can understand the actions that are currently depriving you of your freedom.
As president of our “European Association of Political Advisors” and as vice president of the “International Association of Political Advisors,” you have always demonstrated your openness and your honest work for the people.
All of us in the various groups with whom you have worked so far sincerely hope that your imprisonment, which has now lasted almost half a year, will soon be proven to be a miscarriage of justice and that you will be able to rejoin us in our daily work.
Democracy in Europe, but also in all other regions of the world, needs you, your infinite experience, your creativity, and your honest commitment.
We all hope that this day is not too far away.
My thoughts are always with you, and I send you my very best wishes.
Yours,
Sepp Hartinger
Founder of the European Association of Political Advisors and a great admirer of your fantastic work for democracy.