“We were clearly defeated,” says Dedeağaç Farmers’ Association after protests

In a public statement assessing nearly two months of protests, including the blockade at the Bahçeköy border crossing, the association pointed to major trade union mistakes at the national level, which it says ultimately led farmers to defeat.

“The Outcome Did Not Match the Scale of the Mobilization”
In its statement, the association recalled that the mobilization began two months ago at Dedeağaç Airport, describing it as a collective struggle aimed at ensuring viability, productivity, and a dignified life for farmers in their homeland, as well as a better future for their families and the country.

However, the association noted that serious missteps in nationwide union coordination undermined the effort:

“Unfortunately, once again, major trade union mistakes were made at the national level by many sides, and we were not vindicated to the extent we had hoped. In fact, when comparing the scale of the mobilization with the final outcome, we believe we were clearly defeated.”

“Defeats Are Also Lessons”
Despite the disappointment, the statement underlined that defeats are part of life and must serve as lessons for growth and wisdom.

The association added that the true impact of the protests—both at the local and individual level—will be judged over time, once the long-term consequences become visible across different sectors.

Support of Local Society Seen as Key Achievement
According to the association, the most important achievement of the mobilization was the trust, appreciation, and support gained from local society, achieved through the protesters’ stance, conduct, and respect toward fellow citizens.

“Through our struggle, our attitude as a blockade, and the absolute respect we showed toward our fellow citizens, we won the appreciation and support of the local community,” the statement said.

“The Struggle Continues”
Although tractors have now withdrawn from the Bahçeköy customs checkpoint, the association stressed that the collective struggle is far from over.

The statement concluded with a call for continued action until:

All honest farmers and livestock producers are fully compensated, and
The state seriously addresses the chronic problems of the Meriç region with concrete actions and projects.
“Our tractors may have left the customs post, but our common struggle will continue until justice is achieved.”