Turkey: Human rights activists on trial for terrorism Oct. 25

Event

The Turkish government is trying 11 human rights activists, including two senior Amnesty International employees, on terrorism charges in Istanbul. The trial, which began Wednesday, October 25, comes after the activists were detained in July. Specifically, the defendants face charges of assisting the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and Hizmet (Gulenist) movement, and face up to 15 years in prison if found guilty.

Some 50 people, including human rights activists, women's rights activists, and diplomatic personnel from foreign consulates protested outside the Istanbul court on Wednesday. Heightened security measures in Istanbul are expected throughout the coming days, and additional protests and related transportation disruptions are possible.

Context

Since the failed coup d'état on July 15, 2016, which killed over 250 people, nearly 150,000 people have been fired or forced to resign from their jobs, and over 60,000 people have been arrested. Critics have repeatedly denounced the increasing restrictions of political freedom and human rights violations under the guise of national security.

Advice

Individuals in Istanbul are advised to avoid all protests and public gatherings as a precaution. More generally, individuals in Turkey should expect continuing heightened security measures, follow any instructions issued by the local authorities, and carry proper identification at all times (e.g., passport).