Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an has faced a divided response online after footage showed him ‘slapping’ a child during a public event. The incident occurred on July 27 at the opening ceremony of the Aider Plateau Protection and Renewal Project in Rize, Turkey. The video shows a young boy approaching Erdo?an on stage, smiling and lifting his hand to the president’s, only for Erdo?an to lightly slap the side of his face. The boy then kissed Erdo?an’s hand, bowed his head, and was given some money before walking away.
Social media users have been quick to weigh in on the president’s behavior. Some defended Erdo?an, suggesting the slap was a playful or culturally significant gesture rather than an act of aggression. They noted that in Turkish culture, kissing the hand of elders is a sign of respect, and the slap might have been a gentle correction for not immediately showing this respect.
However, others condemned the president’s actions, questioning his conduct in public and speculating about his behavior in private. Critics described the incident as “pathetic” and “disgusting,” arguing that no cultural context could justify the slap.
The divided opinions highlight the complexities of interpreting cultural gestures and the varying perceptions of leadership behavior. As the video continues to circulate, it raises broader questions about the role of cultural practices in modern society and the expectations of public figures’ conduct.
