In a recent development that has raised significant concerns about freedom of expression in Turkey, Peri Pamir, a 71-year-old retired researcher, was convicted under anti-terrorism laws for sharing a Guardian article on social media. The article in question reported on Anna Campbell, a British woman who was killed while fighting with Kurdish forces in Syria.
The Incident and Legal Proceedings
In 2018, Pamir shared a Guardian article on Facebook, describing Campbell as “a young idealist” and reflecting on the conflict between Islamic State (IS) and Kurdish fighters. A month later, she was notified by local prosecutors that she was under investigation for “creating propaganda for a terrorist organization.” Despite her defense that she was merely sharing a news article without any intent to promote terrorism, Pamir was convicted and received a suspended sentence.
Broader Context: Turkey’s Anti-Terrorism Laws
Turkey’s anti-terrorism legislation has been a subject of international scrutiny. The laws are often criticized for their broad definitions, which can encompass a wide range of activities, including journalistic work and social media posts. This has led to numerous convictions of journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens.
Implications for Freedom of Expression
Pamir’s conviction underscores the precarious state of free speech in Turkey. Sharing a news article from a reputable international source resulted in legal action, highlighting the risks associated with expressing opinions or disseminating information that may be perceived as critical of the government or its policies. This environment fosters self-censorship and stifles public discourse.
International Reactions and Human Rights Concerns
Human rights organizations have consistently raised alarms over Turkey’s use of anti-terrorism laws to suppress dissent. The United Nations has urged Turkey to cease misusing these laws to detain human rights defenders, emphasizing that such practices violate international human rights standards.
The conviction of Peri Pamir for sharing a Guardian article serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing freedom of expression in Turkey. It highlights the urgent need for legal reforms to ensure that anti-terrorism laws are not weaponized against citizens exercising their right to free speech. The international community continues to monitor these developments, advocating for the protection of fundamental human rights in Turkey.
