Plight of human rights activists in Turkey

1.12.2016

Question for written answer P-009116-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Daniele Viotti (S&D)

On the morning of 14 November 2016, the Turkish police arrested Levent Pişkin, an LGBTI activist, journalist and human rights lawyer defending the leader of the HDP party, Selahattin Demirtaş, who is currently being held in prison. This is the latest in a wave of arrests of members of the opposition carried out on the grounds of alleged membership of terrorist groups or complicity with the people behind the 15 July coup attempt.

1. Given that Turkey is a candidate country, how does the Commission intend to ensure that the rule of law and fundamental rights are upheld in the country?

2. Will the EU delegation to Turkey take any specific steps to ensure that the fundamental rights of persons held in pre-trial detention or undergoing trial on grounds relating to the coup attempt are protected?