Under reconsruction
Research Expertise
With more than 25 years of field experience, I specialize in independent, evidence-based research across the Middle East, North Africa, the Horn of Africa, and West Africa. My work focuses on understanding complex social, political, and humanitarian developments through direct field engagement, local networks, and rigorous information verification.
Areas of expertise include:
• Political and governance dynamics
• Humanitarian issues and NGO operations
• Migration, displacement, and refugee movements
• Informal economies and transnational networks
• Social change, community resilience, and local development
• Religious trends, identity, and interfaith relations
Drawing on extensive regional experience and trusted local contacts, I provide accurate, context-rich analysis and field insights. Whether assessing emerging developments, verifying difficult-to-access information, or navigating complex operating environments, I deliver reliable research grounded in local realities and cultural understanding.
Contact Me
For assignments, collaborations, or media support: aksamemet at gmail.com
Some of my published articles
Turkish articles
My articles for Independent Turkish
https://www.indyturk.com/article-author/memet-aksakal
My articles for Serbestiyet
Memet Aksakal
Freelance Journalist, Fixer, and Researcher
Unfortunately, after changing my web hosting server, all the information on my website was deleted. I am currently rebuilding the site.
About Me
I’m a freelance journalist and researcher with more than two decades of experience covering Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and other parts of the Middle East. I have worked with major television networks and production companies from the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia on breaking news coverage, investigative reports, and documentaries focusing on the political, social, and cultural realities of the region.
In addition to my reporting and research work, I have extensive experience supporting international journalists, documentary filmmakers, and television crews in the field. This has included source development, logistical coordination, interview arrangements, and facilitating access to relevant contacts and locations throughout the region.
This experience has enabled me to develop extensive regional networks and a strong understanding of the complexities of operating in diverse environments across the region.
Between 2011 and 2016, I was based on the Syrian border, reporting directly on the war and its humanitarian, political, and security consequences.
I am fluent in Kurdish, Turkish, English, German, and Persian, with working knowledge of Arabic. I produce original articles and video footage and have extensive experience supporting international media teams working in Turkey and the wider region.
Journalists who wish to report fom Turkey must obtain temporary press accreditation from the Presidential Directorate of Communications. Detailed information is available here: https://www.iletisim.gov.tr/english/temporary-accreditation