On 18 February 2020, the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor issued a new detention order against Osman Kavala on new charges only few hours after a court ordered his release. The lack of credible grounds to re-arrest Osman Kavala and to continue his detention pending different charges, further damages the credibility of Turkey’s judiciary.

As a candidate country and long-standing member of the Council of Europe, Turkey is expected to apply the highest democratic standards and practices, including the right to a fair trial, the strict respect of the principle of presumption of innocence and a legal process. These are critical aspects not only for the citizens of Turkey, but also to guarantee an impartial and independent Turkish judiciary. Judicial proceedings cannot be used as a means of silencing critical voices.

The EU will continue to closely monitor ongoing trials, including the Büyükada case.