HÜDA PAR's Human Rights and Legal Affairs Directorate organized a workshop titled “The Search for Social Consensus and a New Constitution” at a hotel in Topkapı, Istanbul.

The day-long event, held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, brought together academics, legal experts, civil society representatives, and political figures to deliberate on the creation of a new, inclusive constitution that reflects the values and aspirations of Turkish society.

The workshop was structured into three comprehensive sessions, each designed to tackle critical aspects of the constitutional reform process. The first session focused on outlining a roadmap for drafting a new constitution, exploring procedural and logistical steps required for a transparent and participatory process. The second session addressed key considerations, such as balancing universal legal norms with Türkiye’s unique cultural and historical context. The final session evaluated societal expectations, aiming to ensure the new constitution resonates with the diverse needs and values of the Turkish people.

A Call to Replace the “Coup Constitution”

The event commenced with a solemn recitation of the Quran by Sheikh Cemal Mürsel, setting a reflective tone for the discussions. HÜDA PAR Deputy Chairman and Head of Human Rights and Legal Affairs İshak Sağlam delivered opening remarks, underscoring the party’s commitment to fostering a national dialogue on constitutional reform. The keynote address was given by HÜDA PAR Chairman Zekeriya Yapıcıoğlu, whose impassioned speech framed the workshop as a critical opportunity to address the long-standing issue of Türkiye’s governance under a constitution rooted in a military coup.

Yapıcıoğlu sharply criticized the 1982 Constitution, which he described as a “coup constitution” that has governed Türkiye for 43 years despite widespread disapproval. “Almost everyone complains about this coup constitution,” he stated, noting that even after multiple amendments, the document retains the authoritarian spirit of its origins. He recounted the irony that the coup plotters who drafted the constitution were later convicted for their actions, with some escaping imprisonment due to their age or death, yet their legal framework continues to shape the nation’s governance.

“This coup constitution, first used by those who staged the coup, saw them tried and convicted for their crimes, but the document they created remains in place,” Yapıcıoğlu said, highlighting the contradiction. He argued that the 1982 Constitution, with its uniform, impositional, and denialist provisions, has been a source of social division and trauma, failing to reflect the beliefs and values of the Turkish people.

A Historical Perspective on Türkiye’s Constitutional Tradition

Providing historical context, Yapıcıoğlu noted that, with the exception of the 1921 Constitution, all of Türkiye’s constitutions were drafted under extraordinary circumstances or by coup plotters. This, he argued, has resulted in a constitutional tradition that is disconnected from the nation’s cultural and moral fabric. “Türkiye’s biggest problem lies in constitutions that conflict with society and its values,” he said, emphasizing that a true social contract must respond to the demands and needs of the people it serves.

Yapıcıoğlu called for a “completely new and indigenous” constitution, one that is liberal, participatory, and grounded in human dignity. He stressed that such a document must align with universal legal norms while remaining true to the beliefs and values of the Turkish nation. “What we need today is not just a constitution that is new in name, but one that is entirely new in its structure, spirit, language, and style,” he declared.

A Vision for an Inclusive and Just Constitution

Elaborating on the qualities of the proposed constitution, Yapıcıoğlu outlined several key principles. He advocated for a document free of ideological imposition, with justice as its sole guiding ideology. The new constitution, he argued, should prioritize the rule of law, exalt human dignity, and place the nation—rather than the state—at its core. Importantly, it must avoid “mortgaging the will of future generations,” ensuring flexibility for future societal changes while remaining rooted in timeless principles of fairness and inclusivity.

Yapıcıoğlu also addressed the procedural debate surrounding constitutional reform. Critics have often argued that the current Turkish Grand National Assembly lacks the legitimacy to draft a new constitution, suggesting that a separate constituent assembly is required. Yapıcıoğlu firmly rejected this notion, asserting that the current Parliament, with its 15 political parties representing 95 percent of the public vote, is uniquely qualified to undertake this task. “If this Assembly, which reflects the will of the people, does not have the authority to draft a new constitution, then who does?” he asked rhetorically. “An assembly that cannot assert its own rights cannot defend the nation’s laws.”

He urged the Assembly to take ownership of its constitutional authority, arguing that it has both the right and the capability to draft a new constitution. “The first step is for the Assembly to assert its own powers and laws,” Yapıcıoğlu said, emphasizing that this is a historical responsibility that can no longer be delayed.

Fostering Unity Through Dialogue

Yapıcıoğlu expressed hope that the workshop would serve as more than an academic exercise, laying the foundation for a true social contract that reflects the collective will of the Turkish people. “Our goal is not polarization but compromise, not division but unity, not imposition but a common will,” he said. He underscored the importance of inclusivity, stating that the new constitution must be a collaborative effort involving all segments of society, not just a select few.

The workshop featured contributions from a diverse group of participants, including legal scholars, political analysts, and representatives from civil society organizations. Discussions focused on practical steps for engaging the public in the constitutional process, ensuring transparency, and addressing contentious issues such as minority rights, secularism, and the balance between state authority and individual freedoms.

A Step Toward a More Just Future

In his closing remarks, Yapıcıoğlu thanked the participants for their contributions and expressed optimism that the workshop would mark a turning point in Türkiye’s constitutional journey. “If we can bring our different views, colors, and thoughts together with a common mind, we can walk toward the future with stronger and more confident steps,” he said. “Our hope is to leave our children a more just and livable tomorrow.”

The event concluded with a renewed call for unity and collaboration, with HÜDA PAR pledging to continue facilitating discussions on constitutional reform. As Türkiye grapples with the challenges of modernizing its governance framework, the workshop represents a significant effort to bridge divides and forge a path toward a constitution that truly reflects the aspirations of its people.

HÜDA PAR’s initiative has sparked renewed debate about the feasibility and scope of constitutional reform, with many attendees expressing optimism that the discussions will contribute to a broader national dialogue. As the country moves forward, the outcomes of this workshop may play a pivotal role in shaping Türkiye’s constitutional future. (ILKHA)