Persecution of Lawyers and Journalists in Turkey
Tuesday, 27 January, 2015 12:45 – 14:30
Room XXIII Palais des Nations, Geneva Sandwiches and Drinks will be served
This event comes at a time when the rule of law in Turkey is under serious threat. Both lawyers and journalists suffer from this situation.
Turkey has adopted new laws and judicial reform packages, allowing for even more internet censorship, data collection, surveillance and the censoring of critical views on the pretence of protecting national security, which are directly undermining the freedom of expression, but also other fundamental rights such as privacy. In particular, journalists and lawyers are negatively impacted. They are subject to surveillance and legal harassment.
The last couple of years large groups of lawyers and journalists have been arrested on the suspicion of terrorism related offences. Lawyers face stigmatisation by being continuously identified with their clients’ causes. Journalists are accused of not being independent. For both groups it is hard, if not impossible, to work freely, independently and securely.
At this event fundamental rights of lawyers and journalists that are regularly being violated will be discussed, including freedom of expression, privacy, confidentiality between lawyers and their clients and the protection of sources by journalists.
Speakers
Ayse Bingol – Lawyer from Turkey
Tayfun Ertan – Journalist from Turkey
Marietje Schaake (by Skype) – Member European Parliament
Alexandrine Pirlot de Corbion – Privacy International
Moderator
Irma van den Berg – Turkey expert of Lawyers for Lawyers
Kindly confirm your presence no later than 23 January and/or for more information, mail at bp@lawyersforlawyers.nl
