Many critics argue that Erdogan has increasingly centralized power, weakened democratic institutions, and suppressed political dissent. They highlight his government’s crackdown on journalists, academics, and political opponents as evidence of a broader trend toward authoritarianism. Erdogan’s consolidation of power has been facilitated by constitutional changes that have expanded the authority of the presidency, concentrating power in his hands and diminishing the checks and balances traditionally provided by other branches of government. This centralization of power has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the rule of law in Turkey. Additionally, Erdogan’s government has utilized tactics such as mass arrests, censorship, and the closure of independent media outlets to silence dissenting voices and maintain control over public discourse. The targeting of journalists and academics, in particular, has had a chilling effect on freedom of expression and academic freedom in Turkey. Moreover, political opponents have faced harassment, legal persecution, and imprisonment, further undermining the credibility of Turkey’s democratic institutions. As a result, Turkey’s trajectory towards autocracy has drawn criticism from both domestic and international observers, who warn of the long-term implications for the country’s democratic future and its standing in the global community.