by André Nilsen

Recommendation to the Governments of the Member States of the European Union

Recent events have exposed deep flaws in the justice system of Turkey. First, eminent writer and respected intellectual Orhan Pamuk was outrageously charged with treason for just commenting on Turkey’s denial of the suff ering of Armenians. Second, an academic conference convened simply to discuss Turkey’s historical genocide of Armenians was appallingly banned by a court.

This is clear evidence that fundamental rights are under sustained attack by the justice system of Turkey. Turkey can therefore not be considered a country that upholds the rule of law which is a cornerstone of good governance.

If Turkey is allowed to join the European Union - European leaders are due to decide whether to commence accession negotiations on October 3 - there would be a substantial risk that the deeply flawed justice system of Turkey would cause lasting damage to Europe.

OCGG Government Recommendation No 4 (PDF)