Alongside her literary career, Berktay is a staunch advocate for women’s and Kurdish rights. In October 2011, she was arrested on charges of “membership in an illegal organization” related to her pro-Kurdish cultural activities. She spent over two years in jail before being released pending trial in January 2014. In April 2013, she was honored with the PEN/Barbara Goldsmith Freedom to Write Award for her courageous stance. In 2023, she was detained in house raids conducted across the country.
Ayşe Berktay
Is case active: Yes
Country:Türkiye
Region:Europe and Central Asia
Gender:Female
Status:Continued Harassment