Response to Turkey on the Anniversary of the 2016 Attempted Coup
As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Kate M. Byrnes
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
July 20, 2017
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
The United States echoes its strong condemnation of the attempted coup one year ago, and reiterates its unequivocal support for Turkey’s democracy and democratic institutions. We reiterate our support for efforts to bring to justice those individuals responsible for last year’s coup attempt through fair and transparent judicial proceedings that respect human rights, in accordance with the rule of law, and Turkey’s OSCE commitments.
We are concerned by the significant expansion of scope of the prosecution for attempted coup-related activities that includes opposition politicians, the media, and a wide range of those whose views differ from the government. More voices, not fewer, are necessary in challenging times.
Furthermore, the continuation of a prolonged state of emergency undercuts respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, as enshrined in the Turkish Constitution and consistent with Turkey’s OSCE commitments and other international commitments and obligations. We urge an expeditious end to the state of emergency.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
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