Erdogan has agreed to suspend plans to redevelop Gezi Park — the initial controversy that sparked the protests — pending a court appeal on the matter. He also agreed that, if the court rules in favor of the government, the question will be put to a referendum in Istanbul. Protesters, in turn, would end their demonstrations. Organizers agreed to take Erdogan’s pledge back to those occupying the park for a vote; as of Friday evening, the protesters had not yet left. But assuming that the deal with Erdogan holds, protesters should capitalize on their momentum to establish a stronger political movement for future elections.
Over the past decade, Erdogan has micromanaged nearly all Turkish policy decisions, from foreign policy to urban development. In the current crisis, he has at times seemed taken aback, even personally offended, by the challenge to this leadership style, which has come despite the government’s accomplishments, which include a booming economy. He has further harmed his reputation in Turkey and worldwide with his obstinacy and disregard for police brutality. Finding a middle ground on Gezi Park should help repair that damage. But Erdogan must fundamentally rethink how he rules. A good start would be to be more respectful of the right to dissent.