Uyghur leader Dolkun Isa says Turkey entry ban driven by China

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

ISTANBUL, Turkey — Uyghur human rights activist Dolkun Isa said he was denied entry into Turkey while transiting through Istanbul Airport, describing the decision as a politically motivated ban imposed under pressure from China.

Isa, a former president of the World Uyghur Congress, announced the incident via social media, stating that despite holding a valid Turkish passport and national ID, authorities did not allow him to enter the country.

The case has renewed debate over Ankara’s stance on Uyghur activists and its diplomatic relations with Beijing.

“This is not about security”

Sharing photos of himself with his luggage in the airport’s transit area, Isa posted messages in both Turkish and English. In his Turkish-language post, he said that although he is a Turkish citizen with full legal documentation, he was once again barred from entering the country.

In an English statement, Isa rejected any security justification for the decision, writing that the ban represents “a clear political punishment” and pointing to what he described as China’s growing international influence.

Social media reaction and public debate

Isa’s posts were widely shared on social media, drawing reactions from human rights advocates and members of the Uyghur diaspora. Several commentators argued that the incident reflects broader geopolitical pressures rather than an individual administrative decision.

Human rights groups have long criticized restrictions placed on Uyghur activists, particularly those who have been vocal about alleged abuses in China’s Xinjiang region.

Entry ban dating back to 2006

According to Isa, the entry ban imposed by Turkey dates back to 2006. Although a Red Notice previously issued against him by Interpol at China’s request was later withdrawn, Turkish authorities have maintained restrictions on his entry.

Isa was last denied entry in 2021, when he arrived in Turkey but was deported from the airport without being allowed to leave the transit area.

Diplomatic context and China–Turkey relations

Dolkun Isa is regarded internationally as one of the most prominent figures advocating for Uyghur rights. His continued exclusion from Turkey has been interpreted by some observers as a reflection of Ankara’s diplomatic balancing act with Beijing, particularly in the context of economic and strategic relations.

No official statement has yet been issued by Turkish authorities regarding the latest incident. Requests for comment have been directed to relevant institutions, and any response will be added if received.

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