Demet Akalın Raises Concerns Over Green Passport Rights: “We’ve Reached 30 Years—Why Can’t We Get It?”
Well-known Turkish singer and public figure Demet Akalın has drawn attention with a social media post calling for green passport rights for artists. Her statement came after recent discussions about granting green passports to certain professional groups such as engineers and architects.
Emphasizing the long careers and social contributions of artists, Akalın argued that the art community should also benefit from this privilege. She highlighted that artists have been actively involved in social responsibility projects alongside their professional achievements.
Demet Akalın, who is known for her active presence on social media, shared a news report about legislative proposals submitted to the Turkish Parliament that aim to grant green passports to specific professions, using the opportunity to voice the expectations of artists.
“We artists are celebrating our 30th year in the profession, and we lead the way in social responsibility projects. Why can’t we get a green passport?”
Her remarks come at a time when discussions about expanding eligibility for green passports have regained momentum in Turkey.
Which Professional Groups Are Being Considered?
Demet Akalın’s comments followed recent legislative initiatives proposing the extension of green passport (special stamped passport) rights to various professional groups. These proposals include engineers, architects, pilots, and cabin crew members.
According to the proposed regulations, engineers and architects with at least 15 years of professional experience may be granted visa-free travel opportunities.
Under current law, green passports are issued to certain senior public servants, former members of parliament, mayors, national athletes, and exporters who meet specific criteria.
