Human Rights Situation Poor Report Says

"Developments have not been positive in the implementation of human rights and particularly of preventing torture, during the period," IHD report says. The report further observes "public prosecutors' and judges' failure in interpreting the recent amendments in the laws from the stand point of broader freedom of expression." According to the report:

Torture

* 183 people were subject to torture and ill treatment in detention during this period. The number of people who were beaten and injured by security forces in demonstrations is 73.

* 33 people were subject to torture and degrading treatment in prisons. 50 people were threatened and forced to be reporter.

* 53 people were subject to torture and ill treatment in their houses or out on the streets. Thus, the total number of people who were subject to torture and ill treatment in different places and times reaches 392.

.

Honor killings and violence against women

A new category in the report deals with violence against women and children "Women suicide and honor killings persist," the report says .

The report records 11 suicides and 5 honor killings, with the reservation that the real figures might be higher due to difficulties in reaching reliable data.

"Two trials have continued about sexual exploitation of women and especially of girls. The N.Ç. (13) trial in Mardin and Z.T. (14) trial (also dubbed by the media as "second N.Ç. trial") reflect only a small part of sexual exploitation on women and girls.

Freedom of Expression

* 4 radios and 1 local television were suspended 180 days from broadcasting by the Higher Council of Radio and Television (RTUK).

* 6 newspapers and journals were closed for 79 days.

* 9 journalists were taken under detention. 7 books, 17 journals, 7 newspapers and 3 posters were confiscated and banned.

The number of banned activities is 11. These activities include press release, theatre, panel and competition.

50 individuals are indicted for imprisonment and fines for charges of "crimes of thought". Of these:

23 were charged for violating Article 159 of the Turkish Penal Code, 5 for violating the Anti-Terror Law, 3 for violating Article 312, 19 for violating Article 169. 35 of them were indicted for imprisonment for total 46 years, 9 months and 7 days imprisonment in this term.

During the quarter 15 particular laws relating to human rights and freedoms were amended : Laws No: 4778, 4779, 4780, 4787, 4789, 4793, 4806, 4809, 4810, 4817, 4826, 4829, 4838, 4841 and 4842.

However, "the constitutional and legal system of Turkey can not be democratic with such partial amendments which involve mostly amending the same article several times, the report reads.

"Turkey's constitution and legal system needs a radical democratic change and transformation. The amendments could respond public expectations and wishes only through participation and contribution by the related sections of the society."

IHD warns the Turkish government to display “maximum responsibility and determination for the protection of human rights and basic freedoms.”

”Above all the State agencies and their staff should respect human rights.” (EK)