July 15 commemoration in Bern warns of persistent FETO threat

Türkiye’s Communications Directorate and the Turkish Embassy in Bern organized a commemoration in the Swiss capital on Monday to mark the tenth anniversary of the Fetullah Terrorist Organization’s defeated coup attempt, with senior officials warning that the group continues to pose a threat beyond Türkiye’s borders.

'Criminal and espionage organization'

Speaking at the event titled “National Will and Democratic Resistance: July 15 in its 10th Year,” Ambassador Sebnem Incesu stated that FETO branches remain scattered across various European countries including Switzerland. “FETO is a threat to all countries where it operates,” she said, describing the organization as a “criminal and espionage organization driven by interests and influence” that “should be treated accordingly.” Incesu noted that Türkiye’s fight against the network is not over, adding that the group seeks to preserve its international presence through education and health sectors while conducting disinformation campaigns via media and lobbying efforts. Communications Director Burhanettin Duran said in a video message that FETO represents “an open threat to every country where it operates,” calling on states seeking strong ties with Türkiye to stand with Ankara against groups targeting its sovereignty and democracy.

Europe's strategic interest

Former Swiss Ambassador to Ankara Jean-Daniel Ruch told attendees that Europe “tends to forget sometimes that Türkiye is a European state,” arguing that the continent has a “major, major interest” in a “strong, wealthy, democratic, stable and autonomous Türkiye.” Ruch pointed to the recent NATO summit in Ankara as a defining moment that changed perceptions among ruling circles in Europe and the United States regarding the country’s strategic importance, citing Türkiye’s growing role in energy security and its independent position on regional issues including Ukraine, Syria and Iran. UN-accredited journalist Catherine Fiankan-Bokonga noted that while Türkiye’s importance was visible in 2016, it “was not recognized as such” at the time, adding that the country is increasingly viewed by African nations as a partner “you can lean on in case of problems.”

International cooperation urged

Turkish lawmaker Sena Nur Celik Kanat warned that viewing FETO as a threat confined to Türkiye would be a serious mistake, urging international cooperation on extradition requests and asset freezes. National Defense University faculty member Murat Yigit highlighted post-2016 reforms aimed at strengthening permanent civilian control of the military, stating that the armed forces are now “properly positioned within the state system” as a professional fighting force “completely subordinate to the democratic mandate of the people.”