We are determined!
On June 25, 2025, numerous international human rights organizations gathered in Strasbourg for a historic protest march — and we at HRD – Human Rights Defenders e.V. actively participated as one of the leading umbrella organizations. This determined action sent a clear signal against the ongoing disregard of the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) by Turkey.
For years, HRD e.V. has been documenting and analyzing systematic human rights violations, particularly regarding political trials, freedom of expression, torture, and arbitrary detentions in Turkey. The Turkish government’s failure to implement final ECtHR rulings is an alarming example of how the rule of law and European core values are being undermined.
A Protest with Impact – Our Role in Strasbourg
The demonstration in Strasbourg was more than a symbolic protest — it was the result of months of civil society collaboration and intensive preparation. HRD e.V. played a key role in conceptualizing and organizing the event. Together with our partner organizations, we not only helped coordinate logistics but also contributed substantial content: We were among the few specialized organizations to prepare and submit official letters and legally grounded demands to the bodies of the Council of Europe and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).
Our delegation handed over several dossiers documenting Turkey’s systematic non-implementation of ECtHR rulings. Particularly highlighted were prominent cases like Osman Kavala and Selahattin Demirtaş, whose continued detention despite ECtHR decisions represents a clear breach of the European Convention on Human Rights.
For Justice and International Law – Our Demand
In our statements, together with our partners, we call on the Council of Europe and its member states to initiate concrete sanction mechanisms against Turkey as long as these ECtHR rulings are ignored. This is not only a legal necessity but a matter of justice and solidarity with the countless victims of political repression.
However, our work does not end with this demonstration. The Strasbourg action is part of a larger HRD e.V. strategy to raise awareness about human rights violations in Turkey at the European level. Through our ongoing “Human Rights Monitor” project, continuous analyses, and targeted lobbying activities, we advocate for a Europe where respect for human rights is non-negotiable.
A Strong Network – A Strong Commitment
Participation in the Strasbourg demonstration marks another milestone in HRD e.V.’s history — and a clear sign of our growing international network. The visibility and recognition of our work within European institutions and media confirm our course and motivate us to stand even more resolutely for the rights of the oppressed.
We thank all supporters, volunteers, and partner organizations who made this action possible. Together we show: Human rights are indivisible — and their defense knows no borders.
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