The discourse of the West and the attitudes of its leaders are important because they influence public debate in Turkey.

Bear in mind how valuable a secular Turkey is for the world.

I certainly do not support excluding faith from public life.

The government in Turkey, which represents the powerful, traditionalist mass, is very comfortable creating policies tailored only for their supporters.

It is well known that Turkey has more imprisoned journalists than any other country, but as a result of the chilling effect of these prosecutions on the press, many stories never make the news.

Many female politicians get intimidated by the aggressive behaviour of men. I don't. Not because I am a courageous person or anything, but because I see international standards, and I see that they are worth fighting for.