Turkish veterans protest in Ankara demanding equal rights and benefits

Veterans of the Turkish anti‑terrorism forces and families of martyrs gathered in Ankara’s Güvenpark, staging a sit‑in to demand equal social and financial rights. They argue that rank‑based distinctions grant higher pensions to officers, while enlisted veterans receive only minimal support, despite the law covering some 7,500 injured or disabled former service members.

The protest, which began on 13 July 2026, has drawn visits from opposition politicians. CHP parliamentary group leader Özgür Özel met the demonstrators, reiterating the party’s intention to re‑submit a draft law that has waited two years in parliament. İYİ Party deputy chair Kevser Ofluoğlu also expressed support, calling for amendments to the Terrorism Law’s Article 21 to grant comparable salaries and humane living conditions.

Organisers stress that the pending legislation, comprising roughly 18 proposals, could be passed by unanimous vote during the parliamentary closing weeks, as has occurred in past instances. They seek the removal of rank‑based disparities, better access to prosthetics and orthotics, and broader employment and health benefits for all veterans.