In the heart of Europe, Human Rights Associations Platforms and human rights defenders from different European countries are once again preparing to raise their voices. The third demonstration, to be held on October 2, 2024, in Strasbourg, aims to draw the attention of the international community to human rights violations in Turkey.
This event, organized under the leadership of Peaceful Actions and various European civil society organizations, focuses on Turkey’s failure to implement the Yalçınkaya decision issued by the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in 2023. This decision had confirmed that Turkey violated human rights by misusing its anti-terrorism laws. However, it is stated that despite a year passing, Turkey has not complied with this decision, and its courts have even explicitly rejected the ruling.
The main themes of the demonstration are listed as follows:
- Non-implementation of ECtHR decisions by Turkey
- Widespread abuse of anti-terrorism laws
- Criminalization of humanitarian aid activities
- Erosion of the rule of law
The organizers invite the Council of Europe to take urgent action with the slogan “DELAYED JUSTICE IS NO JUSTICE!” It is emphasized that the Council’s silence towards Turkey’s attitude, which is responsible for overseeing the implementation of ECtHR decisions, weakens Europe’s human rights system.
The message to be conveyed in the peaceful action jointly organized by Human Rights Associations Platforms from different European countries is “This demonstration is critical to restoring confidence in Europe’s ability to protect human rights. It’s time, and past time, for the Council of Europe to act.”
This important event seems set to test Europe’s determination on human rights and continue the search for justice for victims in Turkey. Human rights defenders hope that this demonstration will stir Europe’s conscience and lead to concrete steps being taken.
