IBAHRI pens joint submission to the UNHRC 35th Universal Periodic Review session on independence of the judiciary in Turkey
In the previous two UPR cycles (2010 and 2015), Turkey committed to strengthen the independence of the judiciary and accepted all recommendations made in that respect, but these have not to date been implemented. This joint submission addresses Turkey’s constitutional and legislative framework (threats to judicial and prosecutorial independence; dismissals and arrests of judges and prosecutors; lack of an effective remedy) and the administration of justice, including impunity and the rule of law (interference with lawyers’ professional duties; arbitrary arrest, detention, and prosecution of lawyers; and closure of Bar associations and Law Societies). The widespread and systematic persecution of members of the legal profession in Turkey has continued unabated since the failed 2016 coup, and requires urgent attention.