Türkiye - Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Treaty

This report examines Türkiye’s obligations under the International Covenant for Civil and Political Rights, highlighting systemic barriers to civic participation. Despite its democratic framework, political violence, ethnic discrimination, and restrictions on free expression undermine fundamental rights.

Key concerns include (1) election irregularities and political violence discouraging civic engagement; (2) suppression of Kurdish political participation and linguistic rights, undermining self-determination; (3) government censorship and misuse of social media to silence opposition and suppress protests; and (4) discrimination against marginalised groups, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals and ethnic minorities, limiting their rights and political involvement.

This report urges Türkiye to reform election oversight, protect freedom of expression, ensure Kurdish representation, and strengthen legal protections for marginalised communities to uphold its ICCPR commitments.