Ray Burke
Question:54 Mr. R. Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether notable progress has been made in Turkey in the area of democratisation and internal reform since 1983. [20101/96]
Written Answers. - Democratisation in Turkey.
Following the restoration of democratic government in Turkey in 1983, after a period of repression under military rule, notable progress was made by the incoming and subsequent governments towards democratisation and internal political reform. Measures were taken to allow greater political freedom for parties and organisations which had previously been banned under the military regime. In addition, reforms were introduced under the penal code, which relaxed restrictions on freedom of expression and political debate within Turkey.
The process of reform of legislation and the full implementation of democratic freedoms and human rights is still, however, not complete, as is clear from recent reports on the situation in Turkey. In this regard, 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. We would wish to see effective reforms in this area adopted and implemented with all possible speed. With our partners in the European Union, we have continued to make it clear to the Turkish authorities that observance of the rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms are the basis for the further development of the Union's relations with Turkey. We will continue to urge the Turkish Government to make progress in the area of democratisation and human rights, to the benefit of both the citizens of Turkey as well as Turkey's relations with the international community.