Silivri, once known as a quiet coastal town near Istanbul, is now infamous for its massive prison complex. Built in 2008 to modernize Türkiye’s jails, it became central to high-profile trials, including that of Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, now jailed for insulting a public official. Originally seen as a symbol of progress, Silivri later became a tool for silencing opposition under President Erdoğan. It held mass trials of alleged coup plotters, many based on weak or falsified evidence. Over time, Türkiye’s prison population has surged from 60,000 in 2002 to over 350,000 today, making it one of Europe’s most incarcerated nations. Silivri now holds double its capacity, with overcrowded cells and harsh conditions. While political prisoners like İmamoğlu face isolation, many others suffer beatings and poor treatment. The phrase “Silivri soğuk” (“Silivri is cold”) has become a warning in Türkiye; speak out, and you might end up there.
Pray for the end of the oppressive regime in Türkiye. Pray for the Türkish government to uphold the rights and freedoms of all the people of the nation. Pray for justice to prevail in the country (The Holy Bible, Deuteronomy 16:19).
Pray for improved living conditions in Silivri prisons in Türkiye. Pray for the immediate and unconditional release of all the political prisoners. (The Holy Bible, Leviticus 25:17).
News Source: The Guardian
Image Source: Canva
