Turkey Approves Olive Grove Law; Mining Permitted in Olive Orchards
The Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) passed a controversial law allowing mining companies to operate in the country’s olive groves. Known as the “Olive Grove Law,” this legislation was proposed by the Justice and Development Party (AKP) to meet Turkey’s energy needs.
Article 11, the focal point of disputes, permits mining companies to exploit olive-cultivated lands and use these areas for the country’s electricity production. Additionally, the law facilitates leasing these lands to mining firms.
In the initial draft, the lease period for olive groves was set at 10 years, but the final version extended it to 20 years, with the possibility of a 10-year extension if contractual obligations are met.
Following widespread protests, a condition was added requiring the planting of two olive trees for every tree cut down. A new mechanism was also introduced to calculate lease payments more fairly.
Heated debates over the bill escalated into physical clashes between lawmakers from the AKP and the Republican People’s Party (CHP). Tensions peaked when MPs from both parties charged at each other.
Prior to the brawl, CHP deputies occupied the parliamentary podium, demanding the immediate cancellation of the bill. Their protests forced the assembly speaker to suspend the session multiple times.
