European Democracy Award 2025 goes to Necati Özkan

To further develop, secure, defend, and strengthen democracy in Europe, the European Association of Political Consultants has created the European Democracy Award, which was presented for the first time to Necati Özkan from Turkey as part of the “European Political Consultants Day 2025”.

Necati Özkan is one of the most experienced political consultants on the continent. He has contributed his experience to many campaigns in various countries across Europe and has always been careful to strictly adhere to the strict rules of fairness as set out in the EAPC’s documents. “He is a role model for us all,” said EAPC co-founder and EAPC Past President Mehmet Ural in his laudatory speech. “He is not only a special and always honest friend, but also a true pioneer for the further development of our democracy. With his global visions and initiatives, he has not only helped shape our association, but has also set standards for fair and transparent election campaigns in many countries, which have significantly promoted democracy.

With the creation of the globally recognized Polaris Award, he has also sent a widely visible signal for better democracy,” said Mehmet Ural.

Necati Özkan is a close consultant to Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu and his campaign strategies led to great electoral successes in Istanbul. On March 19, 2025, Necati Özkan was arrested in Istanbul along with countless other colleagues and has been imprisoned in Bursa ever since.