Challenges to Rule of Law in Türkiye: Human Rights Watch Report 2024
In its World Report 2024, Human Rights Watch sheds light on the deepening erosion of human rights and the rule of law in Türkiye following the re-election of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This comes as Türkiye celebrates its centennial year, but the political landscape is marred by signs of power struggles and politically motivated court decisions.
The report highlights the aftermath of Erdoğan's third term victory in the May 28 elections, coupled with a parliamentary win for his Justice and Development Party-led coalition on May 14. Unfortunately, instead of marking a democratic milestone, the re-election triggered power struggles within the judiciary, resulting in decisions that threaten Türkiye's rule of law framework.
Media Censorship and Arbitrary Fines:
One of the concerning aspects outlined in the report is the censorship faced by Türkiye’s media. Independent news outlets have been subjected to arbitrary fines and prosecution, stifling freedom of the press. This includes restrictions on online platforms and bans on protests, painting a grim picture for those seeking to express dissenting opinions.
Gezi Park Protests and Court Defiance:
In September, Türkiye’s Court of Cassation upheld the convictions of human rights defender Osman Kavala and four others linked to the 2013 Gezi Park protests. This move defied the European Court of Human Rights and showcased a blatant disregard for international human rights standards. The judiciary's actions, including the blocking of a Gezi trial defendant's release, demonstrate a worrying politicization of the legal system.
Türkiye's Media Landscape and Political Targeting:
The media landscape in Türkiye faced significant challenges in its centennial year. The muzzling of media outlets and the targeting of political opponents have become routine. Journalists, human rights defenders, politicians, and social media users have been subjected to abuse of criminal proceedings, further suppressing freedom of expression.
Increased Human Rights Abuses:
The aftermath of the February 6, 2023 earthquakes in southeast Türkiye saw a concerning rise in incidents of police and gendarmerie torture and ill-treatment. Additionally, the government's use of hateful rhetoric against the LGBTQ+ community during the May elections raised alarms about the protection of minority rights.
As Türkiye faces these challenges, Human Rights Watch emphasizes the importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law. The international community must closely monitor the situation and advocate for the protection of fundamental rights in Türkiye. The report serves as a call to action to address these issues and work towards a Türkiye where human rights are respected and upheld.
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