Turkey’s Continuing Rights Violations
The Human Rights Watch (HRW) World Report 2025 paints a grim portrait of Turkey, underscoring ongoing human rights violations, particularly against the Gülen movement. The report states that the Turkish government continues its crackdown against those alleged to be part of this movement, nearly eight years after the government accused them of attempting a coup on July 15, 2016.
Systematic Abuses and Targeted Purges
HRW highlights how President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has relentlessly pursued followers of the Gülen movement since a corruption investigation in 2013 implicated him and his inner circle. By labeling the movement as a terrorist organization, Erdoğan intensified his efforts following the failed coup in 2016, claiming Gülen orchestrated the incident. The movement, however, denies any involvement.
Massive Purges in the Aftermath
Following the coup attempt, the Turkish government enacted a sweeping purge, dismissing over 130,000 public servants without judicial oversight, including more than 4,000 judges and 24,000 military personnel. These mass dismissals were reportedly justified by accusations of links to terrorism, severely impacting countless lives. HRW condemned the Turkish government for its prolonged and arbitrary imprisonment practices.
Escalating Legal Turmoil
According to the Turkish justice minister, more than 705,000 individuals have faced terrorism-related investigations linked to the Gülen movement since the coup. By mid-2024, approximately 13,251 people were imprisoned under these charges, highlighting the legal chaos stemming from Erdoğan’s anti-Gülen campaign. A landmark ruling from the European Court of Human Rights has brought the legality of these actions into question.
ECHR Judgment Ignored
In a significant ruling in September 2023, the European Court criticized Turkey for unjustly convicting former teacher Yüksel Yalçınkaya based on flimsy evidence, which included his union membership and use of a messaging app. Despite this judgment pinpointing laws’ arbitrary application, a Turkish court re-convicted Yalçınkaya the following year, showcasing Turkey’s disregard for international rulings.
Human Rights Abuses in Detention
The report cites alarming findings from the UN Committee Against Torture, noting inhumane treatment of Gülen affiliates in custody, such as solitary confinement and other abusive practices. HRW demands systemic reform to address these profound human rights violations.
Broader Crackdowns on Freedoms
Beyond the Gülen movement, the report highlights the government’s clampdown on freedom of expression, particularly against journalists. With 21 media workers imprisoned under anti-terror laws, Kurdish journalists face disproportionate persecution, underscoring the chilling effect of Erdoğan’s regime on media freedom.
Protests and Political Activism Under Siege
HRW also documented how political dissent is stifled, especially against Kurdish activists, many imprisoned for peaceful political acts. The continuous repression reflects a broader suppression of civil liberties in Turkey, revealing a landscape fraught with fear and repression.
Widespread Xenophobia and Ongoing Issues
The report doesn’t shy away from addressing xenophobic violence against refugees, particularly the Syrian community, alongside restrictions targeting the LGBT community. These ongoing human rights challenges paint a stark picture of Turkey’s political landscape and the systemic issues requiring urgent attention.
Call for Action
The HRW World Report emphasizes the necessity for Turkey to begin adhering to its international obligations, urging significant reforms to restore judicial independence and protect fundamental rights. These recommendations are vital, highlighting the urgency for Turkey to change its course on human rights.
– HRW’s report reveals ongoing human rights violations in Turkey. – Erdoğan’s government targets Gülen movement members since 2013. – Over 130,000 public servants purged post-2016 coup. – ECHR rules against Turkey’s unfair convictions; mass imprisonments continue. – Broader freedoms suppressed, with attacks on journalists and activists.
The HRW World Report 2025 underscores the extensive human rights abuses in Turkey, focusing particularly on the Gülen movement’s persecution and broader violations against freedom of speech and political dissent. As thousands continue to suffer under oppressive measures, urgent reforms are crucial for Turkey to honor its international obligations and protect the rights of all its citizens.
Original Source: stockholmcf.org
