Regarding the UN Human Rights Committee Review Session in Geneva, November 2024
The UN Human Rights Committee reviewed Turkey’s human rights record in Geneva in November 2024. Rights Defenders Initiative attended the session with a representative and had the privilege to give a speech to the Committee based on the report they prepared and submitted. The session revealed significant concerns across multiple human rights implementation and protection areas in Turkey.
The Committee expressed serious concern regarding judicial independence in Turkey, particularly noting the widespread dismissal of judges and prosecutors following the 2016 coup attempt. Of particular concern was Turkey’s continued non-implementation of European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) decisions, notably in the high-profile cases of Osman Kavala and Selahattin Demirtaş.
Regarding counter-terrorism measures, the Committee criticized the broad and ambiguous definition of terrorism in Law No. 3713, which has led to disproportionate applications. The use of the ByLock application and certain bank affiliations as primary evidence in terrorism-related cases was specifically questioned for its legal validity.
The issue of transnational repression emerged as a significant concern, with approximately 100 alleged kidnapping cases of Gülen movement members, particularly in Albania, Kosovo, and Kenya. While Turkish authorities denied direct involvement in these operations, they characterized these cases as legal deportations based on bilateral agreements.
Freedom of expression and media rights remained problematic, with the Committee noting systematic suppression of opposition journalists through terrorism-related charges, arbitrary cancellation of press cards, and widespread internet restrictions. The closure of media organizations and social media censorship were highlighted as particular areas of concern.
The Yalçınkaya case emerged as a significant legal development, highlighting systematic issues in Turkey’s implementation of ECtHR decisions. The case particularly emphasized concerns about arbitrary detentions, violations of freedom of expression, and questions about judicial independence.
The Committee also addressed Turkey’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention and its impact on women’s rights, along with concerns about minority rights, particularly regarding Kurdish language and culture, and the treatment of religious minorities. The situation of refugees, especially Syrians, and allegations of forced returns were also scrutinized.
Turkey’s delegation responses were noted as insufficient, particularly regarding detailed explanations of human rights concerns. While denying involvement in transnational kidnappings, the delegation maintained that their anti-terrorism measures were necessary and legally sound.
This review session underscores the ongoing challenges in Turkey’s human rights landscape and the need for substantial reforms to align with international human rights standards and obligations.
Rights Defenders Initiative maintains its commitment to active participation in international human rights monitoring meetings and will continue its efforts to contribute to human rights improvements in Turkey and other concerned countries.
