In a letter from Istanbul, the article discusses the ways in which the Turkish government alters statistics to obscure reality, particularly in economic and social contexts. It warns readers to be skeptical of data released in recent years, suggesting that numbers have lost their meaning under the current regime. The author asserts that the government employs various tactics to distort the appearance of reality rather than substantively changing the underlying issues.

The piece also highlights the dangerous climate for journalists in Turkey, mentioning that many reporters operate under extreme duress, with some even being forced to wear ankle monitors. Furthermore, it notes the systemic barriers to quality education for children of non-AKP supporters, suggesting that such inequalities are deeply embedded in the regime's governance. This serves as a commentary on the broader societal implications of Erdoğan's policies, illustrating a climate where dissent is suppressed.

Additionally, the article references the recent report on press freedom published by Reporters Without Borders, emphasizing the deteriorating state of free speech in Turkey. It positions the government's manipulation of facts not just as a matter of political strategy but as a fundamental threat to democracy and societal trust, reinforcing the need for international awareness and scrutiny of the Turkish government's practices.