A group of 20 young Egyptians launched a two-day hunger strike in Istanbul on 13 May in a bid to raise awareness of the mass death sentences recently given in Egypt against hundreds of supporters of ousted president Mohamed Morsi. A number of Turkish NGOs, including Humanitarian Relief Organisation (IHH), are participating in the hunger strike. They held a press conference in Istanbul’s Eminonu district, a famous and historical tourist location.
Egyptian activists will stay in a two-room tent behind symbolic wooden jail bars. A theatrical gallows were also placed in front of the tents, where a few Egyptian protesters stood still, hung from their necks. Photos of Egyptian protesters were showcased around the tents and one placard read “Democracy for the World, Hypocrisy for Egypt”.