Political power struggles should not hurt freedom of expression: Foundation chief

The power struggles in Turkish politics should not result in a regression of principles such as freedom of expression if Turkey is going to accelerate its accession process to the European Union, Economic Development Foundation (?KV) Secretary-General Çi?dem Nas has said following the announcement of a delayed EU progress report on Nov. 10.

Turkey should change the perception that it is a country "outside of EU standards regarding freedom of press and expression" and demonstrates its determination to join the EU, Nas told Do?an News Agency.

Nas also said the broad authority offered to police officers should be brought under judicial oversight.

The European Commission slammed Turkey over the rule of law and free speech in its report, which was delayed until after the Nov. 1 elections. The report "emphasizes an overall negative trend in the respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights."

Nas said she agreed with these stances, calling for a reform process with respect to decisions of the European Court of Human Rights in a bid to remove these headlines from subsequent progress reports.

"The internal security law gives police a free hand; those powers should be under judicial review. It is crucial to assure tolerance against criticism and Internet freedom, while hindering a level of insults and expressions encouraging violence," Nas said, noting the upsurge in detentions over online activities and posts on social media.

"Above all, this is a problem of mentality in general, regarding how human rights and fundamental freedoms are approached in Turkey," Nas said.

'EU avoids cooperation in critical report'

The ?KV chief also touched on the delay of the EU progress report, suggesting the...