Remembering Hrant Dink: 17 Years After Tragic Assassination by a Nationalist Turk in Istanbul

Today marks the 17th anniversary of the tragic assassination of Hrant Dink, the fearless founder and editor-in-chief of Istanbul-based 'Agos' weekly. Dink, a prominent Turkish-Armenian journalist and peace advocate, was known for his unwavering commitment to free speech in a country where independent voices often faced persecution.

Born in 1954 in Malatya, Dink moved to Istanbul with his family in 1961, spending his formative years in the Armenian orphanage of Gedikpasha. Throughout his career, Dink courageously tackled complex political issues through bold articles and fearless speeches, earning him a place among Turkey's distinguished intellectuals.

Dink's outspoken stance on the Armenian Genocide led to legal consequences, as he, like others, faced a six-month prison sentence under Article 301 of the Criminal Code. His publications on Islamized and secret Armenians made him a target for persecution.

In one of his interviews, Dink described himself as "a person who understands the pain experienced by his people and bears this burden." His commitment to shedding light on hidden aspects of history and advocating for justice remained unwavering.

Tragically, on January 19, 2007, Dink's life was cut short when he was assassinated in front of the Agos editorial office. The assailant, who had called Dink "gavur" (foreigner or infidel), fled the scene, suggesting nationalistic motivations behind the heinous act.

The police swiftly detained 17-year-old Ogun Samast at a bus station in Samsun, Turkey, and Samast confessed to the murder during his first interrogation. Dink's assassination triggered widespread protests, with cities in Turkey, Armenia, and various countries witnessing jam-packed demonstrations and mourning processions.

As we remember Hrant Dink 17 years after his untimely death, his legacy endures as a symbol of courage, journalistic integrity, and a relentless pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.