Situation in Turkey - Hoofdinhoud

Last Friday I already expressed my concerns about the violence and the excessive use of force by the police. Shocking images from the violent crackdown on Taksim Square in Istanbul and in other Turkish cities have made an impact on me and many others in Turkey, Europe and the world. In our resolutions we have always underlined the crucial importance for Turkey to continue the reform process to safeguard fundamental freedoms, in particular freedom of expression and the right of assembly, which also includes the right to protest.

But this is not only about legal reforms, it is also about perception. I am very disappointed by the reaction of Prime Minister Erdogan. He doesn't seem to care about the effects of his language and style of governing on that part of Turkish society that didn't vote for him. If I look for instance at the new legislation regarding alcohol nobody would condemn the Turkish Government for taking precautionary measures against alcohol abuse. However, when these measures are perceived by a large part of society as an attack against their life style it becomes dangerous.

I strongly believe that democracy is more than a zero-sum game. The majority has a responsibility to also take in consideration the position of the minority, both in politics and in society. However, as I have said before, the word compromise does not seem to exist in Turkish politics. I think a change in attitude of the Turkish government, and the Prime Minister in particular, is therefore absolute necessary.

Maybe he should listen carefully to the words of President Gül: 'Democracy is more than elections'. However, an inclusive, pluralistic and vibrant democracy also needs a competent and constructive opposition, and I believe that also there lies a challenge for Turkey.

A lot has been said in the last days about the attitude of the mainstream Turkish media in (not) reporting on the issues. I agree that is highly doubtful to broadcast a documentary on penguins when Istanbul's main square is covered in smoke and teargas. This European Parliament has consistently criticised the self-censorship of Turkish media and the fact that most media are owned by and concentrated in large conglomerates with a wide range of business interests. I sincerely hope that the recent events, as devastating as they have been, might prove to be a turning point in this regard.