Brussels
26 April 2022
The “Gezi protests” trial saw the worst possible outcomes with the conviction of Osman Kavala to aggravated life sentence and other activists being convicted to long prison sentences. The European Green Party expresses full solidarity with Osman Kavala, the other activists and their families.
The politically motivated show trial and its result are the most blatant crackdown on freedom of assembly, democracy, and human rights by the Turkish government.
Evelyne Huytebroeck, co-chair of the European Green Party, comments:
"Once again, the Turkish government demonstrates its total contempt for fundamental rights and the rule of law. Erdoğan’s authoritarian regime has no intention to engage in any reforms that would increase democratic standards in the country, nor that would bring Turkey closer to Europe.
The European Green Party calls for the immediate release of all political prisoners who have been unfairly treated and trialed."
Ayşe Erdem co-spokesperson of the Turkish Green Left party, adds:
"Turkey cannot function as a democracy without counter-powers who can keep the government accountable: free media, civil society, opposition parties must be able to operate freely and safely.
The tragic verdict of this show trial shows once again that the current government has no intention to allow such a free operating space. We will continue fighting to ensure activists using their democratic rights don’t fear anymore for their freedom and lives in our country."
END
Valentin Dupouey
Head of the Communication Unit / Press Officer
E valentin.dupouey@europeangreens.eu
T +32 (0) 485 93 99 26
European Green Party
Rue du Taciturne 34, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
www.europeangreens.eu
