Zorgen over gewelddadigheden in Istanbul (en) - Hoofdinhoud

Ria Oomen-Ruijten, European Parliament Rapporteur on Turkey, has expressed her concerns about recent reports of violent clashes between the police and protesters on Taksim square in Istanbul.

She said: "I'm worried about the recent events on Taksim square, with international human rights organisations reporting excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators. In its resolutions on Turkey, the European Parliament has previously expressed its concern on the excessive use of force by police officers during demonstrations. Moreover, this year's resolution highlighted the crucial importance of continuing the reform process in order to safeguard freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, including protests, and freedom of association in line with the values of the EU"