Israfil Özkan is the Director of the Freedom Research Association (FRA), a prominent liberal think tank based in Turkey. With a decade-long career, Mr. Özkan has been at the forefront of projects focusing on critical areas such as the rule of law, democratization, free-market principles, and civil liberties. FRA emphasizes five fundamental issues: the rule of law, democratization, civil liberties, economic liberties, and climate change. His expertise extends to enhancing organizational effectiveness, strategic planning, and spearheading impactful digital campaigns.

Beyond his role at FRA, Mr. Özkan serves as an advisor to various think tanks and grassroots organizations, lending his insights to shape and refine their initiatives. He founded the Individual Choice Initiative (ICI), a pioneering pro-consumer advocacy group in Turkey. Within the framework of ICI, he leads three vital projects: Lifestyle Freedom in Turkey, the Turkish Public Alcohol Policy Watch, and the Turkish Vapers’ Alliance. These endeavors involve monitoring public policies and government responses related to lifestyle choices, alcoholic beverages, and tobacco products. They are the sole civil initiatives championing reduced taxation, increased individual responsibility, and personal freedom within their respective domains.