Vol. 470 No. 8
44 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the action, if any, which will be taken by the EU on the question of human rights in Turkey, following the resolution adopted by the European Parliament on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19985/96]
The European Union continues to closely monitor the human rights situation in Turkey and has made it clear repeatedly that observance of the rule of law and fundamental freedoms is an essential element for closer relations between Turkey and the European Union. It is clear from recent reports that the overall situation with regard to human rights and democratic reform is a matter of serious concern. The Union is very conscious of the concerns of the European Parliament in this regard, and will continue to impress upon the Turkish Government the need to make further progress in these areas.
Since the restoration of democratic government in Turkey in 1983, following a period of repression under military rule, progress had been made in certain areas of democratisation and internal reform. This included for example greater political freedom for parties and organisations previously banned, and reforms in the penal code to relax restrictions on freedom of expression and political debate. However, this process of reform of legislation and the full implementation of democratic freedoms and human rights is still not complete. I welcome the recent statement by the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey, Mrs. Tansu Ciller, that the Turkish Government intends to take further initiatives to promote human rights in Turkey. I will continue to urge the Turkish authorities to make early progress to adopt and implement the measures necessary to ensure respect for human rights.
