We call for the immediate release of civil rights activist Osman Kavala

On April 25, after spending more than four years in prison without conviction, civil rights activist Osman Kavala was sentenced by a Turkish court to life in prison on charges related to the nationwide protests of 2013 and the failed coup attempt of 2016.

From the Workers' Group of the European Economic and Social Committee, we strongly condemn the lack of respect shown for the rule of law and the country's legal system, as well as for the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights and the recommendations drawn by the Council of Europe, of which Turkey is a long-standing member. 

The Rulings of the EctHR ordering Mr. Kavala's release are legally binding. As a candidate country now facing infringement proceedings, Turkey's accession process and international reputation will be deeply damaged unless clear, sustained solutions in the field of fundamental rights are taken right away. Starting with the immediate release of Osman Kavala. 

We stand in solidarity with the Turkish Trade Unions, which exercise their democratic rights.