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EU Raises Concerns Over Rule of Law in Turkey Following Imamoğlu Case

Published March 23, 2026, 14:12
EU Raises Concerns Over Rule of Law in Turkey Following Imamoğlu Case

The European Commission expressed concern over the independence of the judiciary in Turkey and raised questions about the country's commitment to democratic values, regarding the one-year anniversary of the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. The Commission stressed that the detention and prosecution of elected officials, opposition politicians, activists, and journalists raises growing questions about Turkey's commitment to democratic values. The EU reminded Turkey that, as a candidate country, it should apply the highest democratic standards and practices. The Commission's 2025 Enlargement Report notes a decline in the rule of law and democratic standards in Turkey.