Roundtable Meeting with Dr. Ömer Madra
Founder of Açık Radyo
November 20, 2024

Dr. Ömer Madra, the founder of Açık Radyo, addressed GRF and GRF Community members at a roundtable meeting held on November 20, 2024. In his speech titled "Ecology, Society, and Life - Is Another World Possible?: The Açık Radyo Experience” Dr. Madra shared his experiences regarding the establishment and development of Açık Radyo, as well as insights into the progress of efforts to combat the climate crisis and the role of media platforms in this field. During the meeting, the story of Açık Radyo, described as “open to all the voices and colors of the universe,” was discussed, including its management structure, working methods, program formats, and the selection of guests and themes. Since 1997, the platform has hosted thousands of guests, speakers, and program creators from around the world, highlighting voices and perspectives on topics such as music, climate, ecology, justice, equality, poverty, and peace.

In his speech, Dr. Madra provided a historical perspective intertwined with his personal journey, touching on topics such as social opposition, the popularization of rock music, the 1968 movements, the global peace and justice efforts of the 1970s, the rise of environmental movements, the evolution of civil society, global activism, and debates on fair globalization. He emphasized that the most significant existential threat humanity faces today is the climate crisis and its related challenges. Dr. Madra stressed the urgent need for humanity to take immediate steps to ensure its continued existence on the planet. He argued that no issue is more critical for the inhabitants of Earth and reiterated that it is still possible to avoid mass extinction and build a better, fairer, and more equal world. Following his speech, Dr. Madra answered the participants’ questions.