25 Jul 2018 | 06:58 PM UTC
Turkey: Parliament passes new security law July 25 /update 6
Parliament passes new security law on July 25 following lifting of the state of emergency on July 19
Event
On Wednesday, July 25, Turkey's parliament passed a security bill granting greater powers to local authorities and allowing security forces to detain suspects for increased periods of time. The bill was passed one week after the lifting of a state of emergency which was declared in 2016 following a failed coup d'état. Demonstrations against the passing of the bill are possible in cities throughout Turkey in the coming days. Heightened security measures and associated transportation disruptions are to be anticipated in the vicinity of any protests.
Context
On July 19, the Turkish government allowed the state of emergency to expire. Turkey's government had previously extended the state of emergency seven times since the failed coup d'état on July 15, 2016, which left over 250 people dead. Local sources report that during the nearly two-year state of emergency, the Turkish government arrested nearly 230,000 people, purged nearly 140,000 people from their jobs, and forced at least 1400 NGOs, 174 media organizations, and 19 trade unions to close.
Advice
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). Avoid all demonstrations or public gatherings as a precaution.
