European Union: Turkey Must Respect the Rule of Law and Fundamental Freedoms

Federica Mogherini, the EU's foreign policy chief, and Johannes Hahn, the EU Commissioner, expressed concern in their statement regarding developments in Turkey, including the declaration of a state of emergency following the failed coup in the country. They stated that the government's actions against educational and media institutions after the failed coup are 'unacceptable.' Mogherini and Hahn emphasized: 'We urge Turkish authorities to respect the rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms, including the right to a fair trial for individuals under any circumstances.' The EU officials noted that during the state of emergency, the government would have extensive powers through the issuance of decrees. However, according to the Turkish constitution, fundamental rights should not be infringed upon even during a state of emergency. On Friday night, a number of military forces in Turkey attempted to seize power by overthrowing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government. However, the coup failed due to the presence of Erdogan's supporters in the streets. Mogherini and Hahn reiterated in their joint statement that the Turkish government declared a state of emergency following unacceptable actions against the educational, judicial, and media systems. In response to the failed coup, Erdogan's government has undertaken a widespread purge of educational institutions, the military, the judiciary, and the media. Reports indicate that in recent days, the Turkish government has detained, suspended, or dismissed over 60,000 military personnel, teachers, and judges. The European officials further warned Turkey that any temporary suspension of adherence to the European Convention on Human Rights must be conducted in accordance with laws and guidelines in this area. Erdogan announced a three-month state of emergency in Turkey yesterday. He stated that the purpose of declaring the state of emergency is to swiftly and effectively carry out all necessary actions to eliminate threats against democracy, the rule of law, and the rights and freedoms of the people. In this context, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the German Foreign Minister, also urged Turkey to limit the duration of the state of emergency and to end it as soon as possible. International human rights organizations have also strongly criticized the Turkish government's actions in response to the failed coup.