Network calls for the implementation of human rights monitoring mechanisms

The Network of the Presidents of the Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union expressed its deep concerns arising from the situation in Turkey and called for the implementation of existing monitoring mechanisms.

The Network claimed to be deeply concerned in the wake of reports of the recent removal from office of over 2,700 members of the judiciary and prosecutors in Turkey, and of orders for the arrest of many judges and prosecutors.

“Immediately following the attempted coup the Turkish Republic has suspended, dismissed and/or arrested thousands of people, including many judges. Among those are judges of the council of state and the court of cassation of Turkey,” it said in a statement. “The number of citizens involved, and the announcement by the president of Turkey of the possible restoration of the death penalty, also raise serious concerns,” the Network added.

The Network held that the neutrality of the judiciary is there to safeguard human rights and fundamental freedoms. “We wish to recall that the independence of the Judiciary is not a privilege for judges, but a guarantee of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, which allows every person to have confidence in the Justice system, the Law and the State.”

In its statement, the Network said that the rule of law was being threatened by the unfolding events in Turkey. “In the view of the Network, the current events, in particular the dismissal or arrest of thousands of judges, were an attack on the independence of the judiciary in Turkey, as well as a systemic threat to the rule of law in the member state of the Council of Europe,” it said, urging for the respect for the rule of law and human rights.

It also said it joined the expression of caution expressed by the secretary general of the Council of Europe.

“We call for the implementation of existing monitoring mechanisms in terms of respect for human rights, both at the level of the Council of Europe and the United Nations,” the Network concluded.