Turkey uses Germany row to stir up nationalism ahead of vote

Since last week, German and Turkish politicians have traded barbs over the banning of events by Turkish officials visiting Germany in a bid to boost support ahead of the April 16 vote on whether to create an executive presidency in Turkey. Although Berlin has insisted the rallies were cancelled by local authorities for logistical reasons, Turkish officials have hit back repeatedly, with Erdogan even comparing such actions to “Nazi practices”. In an attempt to maintain its relations with Ankara – a crucial partner to halt the influx of refugees and migrants into Europe – Germany has refrained from further exacerbating the tensions, urging Turkey to “keep a cool head”. But the spat has provided fodder for those working for a ‘Yes’ vote in the April referendum.