The attacks that have continued in the Gaza Strip since 7 October 2023 have led to an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe. According to official data, tens of thousands of civilians have been killed, thousands remain under the rubble, and more than 9,000 persons are missing. In addition, according to reports of the United Nations, the number of people dying from hunger as a result of the blockade and the attacks is steadily increasing. In the most recent report of the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, it has been established…

The right to defense is the right of a person accused of a crime to defend themselves against the accusations, to present evidence, and to receive legal assistance. This right is constitutionally guaranteed and is recognized as a fundamental element of the right to a fair trial. In the aftermath of the July 15, 2016 coup attempt, the practices of judges and law enforcement officials, along with statutory decrees (KHKs) issued during the State of Emergency (OHAL), have severely restricted the right to defense for individuals prosecuted for alleged affiliation with the Hizmet Movement. During this period, constitutional, Criminal Procedure…

Today marks the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, proclaimed by the United Nations as a call to uphold human dignity and the absolute prohibition of torture. Turkey is a party to the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, signed on June 26, 1987. Article 2 of the Convention clearly states: “No exceptional circumstances whatsoever, whether a state of war or a threat of war, internal political instability or any other public emergency, may be invoked as a justification of torture.” This unequivocal prohibition leaves no room for interpretation: torture…

AST (Advocates of Silenced Turkey) received the Best Documentary Award at the Amsterdam New Cinema Film Festival for METAMORPHOSIS: Women’s Resilience to Oppression in Türkiye. This meaningful recognition provides a stronger voice for women courageously resisting oppression and violence whose voices have been silenced. The Amsterdam Law Center congratulates AST volunteers on this significant accomplishment and wishes them continued success in their valuable work.

March 8 is one of the most significant symbols worldwide in the struggle for women’s rights and gender equality. While significant legal and social steps have been taken in Turkey concerning women’s rights, numerous critical issues remain unresolved. Issues such as inequality in education opportunities, violence against women, femicides, conditions of women in prisons, and workplace discrimination remain pressing concerns in today’s struggle for women’s rights. Equality in Education: Key to Women’s Empowerment Although legal arrangements in Turkey have improved women’s access to education, regional and socioeconomic differences continue to impact girls’ enrollment rates. Particularly in rural areas and economically…

We have learned with deep sorrow that our esteemed senior colleague, Attorney Muzaffer Uzlaş, a prominent figure in Turkey’s struggle for law and human rights, passed away early this morning (12 january) due to a heart attack in exile in Brussels, Belgium. Throughout his life, Attorney Muzaffer Uzlaş courageously fought for justice and the rule of law. Despite facing numerous challenges, he never wavered in his dedication to the legal profession and human rights advocacy. For this unwavering commitment, he became a target of the lawless regime in Turkey and was forced to leave his homeland. He will forever be…