European Commission criticizes Turkish rule of law

European Commission criticizes Turkish rule of law

A new report by the European Commission on Turkey's progress towards accession to the EU has stated that the country has "negative trends" in relation to compliance with the rule of law, freedom of expression and assembly by the country.


"The report emphasizes an overall negative trend regarding the rule of law and fundamental rights. Significant shortcomings have affected the judiciary, as well as freedom of expression and freedom of assembly," RIA Novosti cited the reports as saying.


The EU Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn, said during the presentation of the report that this is manifested in increased pressure and intimidation of journalists and media outlets, as well as amendments to the internet law which allow blocking media content." "Reforms in these key areas are an indispensable priority in Turkey's accession process – in Turkey's own interest," he added.


"Our relations with Turkey extend beyond migration. We have continued to enhance our cooperation in all areas of joint interest: foreign and security policy, counter-terrorism, energy, trade and economic relations," Hahn stressed.

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