Nordic Rights, a prominent human rights organization, stands in unwavering solidarity with the European Court of Human Rights as it holds Turkey accountable for violating the fundamental principles of justice and human rights. We strongly condemn the systemic infringement on human rights, as underscored by the Court’s landmark ruling on September 26, 2023, regarding the wrongful conviction of a teacher for alleged involvement in a terrorist organization.
The ruling, which pertained to the case of Yuksel Yalcinkaya, is a momentous development that reverberates not only within Turkey but also across the international human rights community. Nordic Rights joins legal experts and fellow human rights organizations in applauding the European Court’s decision, which has cast doubt on the legitimacy of thousands of dubious trials stemming from a tumultuous period in Turkey’s recent history.
The European Court of Human Rights has declared that Turkey violated Article 7 of the European Convention on Human Rights, a foundational principle that asserts the inviolability of “no punishment without law.” This grave violation underscores a concerning pattern of injustice that must be rectified.
“In its history, the European Court has come to such a violation in only 60 cases,” noted lawyer Johan Heymans, who represented Yuksel Yalcinkaya in this pivotal case. “This,” Heymans emphasized, “really goes to the core of the rule of law of a country.”
Nordic Rights echoes Heymans’ sentiments, firmly asserting that the rule of law and respect for human rights are the bedrock of any democratic society. We believe that the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms is not merely a legal requirement but a moral duty that transcends borders.
This landmark ruling serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of a fair and impartial judicial system, and Nordic Rights calls on the Turkish government to take immediate and meaningful steps to address the issues raised by the European Court’s decision. We urge the Turkish authorities to ensure that justice is served, and human rights are respected in all legal proceedings.
As we continue our mission to promote and safeguard human rights, Nordic Rights remains steadfast in our commitment to support those who have endured injustice and advocate for a just and equitable world. We encourage the international community to join us in condemning violations of human rights and upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
