COPENHAGEN, 25 March 2025 – The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Democracy, Human Rights, and Humanitarian Questions Committee Chair Lucie (Czech Republic) and Rapporteur Carina Ödebrink (Sweden) expressed concern today over the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and the crackdown on subsequent protests in Türkiye:
“The arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu, alongside numerous municipal officials accused of corruption and alleged ties to terror groups, is deeply troubling. The timing – just days before his expected nomination as presidential candidate – raises serious concerns about the democratic context of these actions. We stress the need for an independent and transparent judicial process and urge judicial institutions to uphold impartiality and international legal standards.
We are also alarmed by reports of widespread detentions of demonstrators as well as journalists. The response to these protests must respect fundamental rights, including freedom of assembly and expression. It is vital that Turkish authorities allow individuals to voice their opinions peacefully and without fear of reprisal.
The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is closely monitoring the situation and urges full respect for democratic principles. We remain committed to constructive dialogue and supporting Türkiye in meeting its human rights commitments under the Helsinki Final Act. We call on all parties to de-escalate tensions and safeguard the political and civil rights of all citizens.”
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