Held on the occasion of International Human Rights Day, the Freedom Convention Turkey 2025took place at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Organised by Advocates of Silenced Turkey (AST) under the theme “Turkey at a Crossroads: Democracy and Justice,” the event brought together victims of state violence, dismissed academics, exiled journalists, human rights defenders and civil society representatives.
Opening the conference, AST spokesperson Dr. Hafza Girdap said that freedom of expression, the rule of law and equality before the law are under increasing pressure in Turkey.
The programme began with a screening of “Kanun Hükmü,” a documentary by director Nejla Demircifocusing on the impact of mass dismissals carried out under emergency decrees. The film, which has faced restrictions in Turkey, highlighted the social consequences of these measures.
Participants also visited the “Silent Screams” exhibition, which displayed personal belongings of detainees, disappeared persons and exiles, emphasizing the human stories behind statistical data.
Concerns over misuse of anti-terror laws
AST President Osman Dülgeroğlu stated that anti-terror legislation has been used to suppress dissent, noting that approximately three million investigations were launched under such laws between 2014 and 2024.
Former detainee Dr. Murat Can, now living in exile, described the post-2016 period as a form of “civil death” and shared figures relating to investigations, detentions, arrests and dismissals from public service.
International experts and rights advocates also highlighted cases in which everyday social or religious activities were treated as criminal offenses, as well as the long-term effects on children and families.
Media freedom, minority rights and climate of fear
Speakers addressed the situation of media freedom in Turkey and discussed pressure on journalists. Former local officials from predominantly Kurdish regions described experiences with state-appointed trustees and security threats.
Political scientist Prof. Dr. Mehmet Efe Caman argued that the state of emergency declared after the failed coup attempt in 2016 contributed to the consolidation of authoritarian governance.
In closing remarks, Dr. Girdap said authoritarianism thrives on silence and stressed that the conference aimed to amplify voices that are often unheard and to raise international awareness of human rights concerns in Turkey.