EU Democracy Report: “Shared Concerns” Over Detained Mayors

In a significant diplomatic move, a coalition of high-ranking rapporteurs from the Council of Europe (CoE) and the European Union (EU) has issued an open letter to Turkey’s Minister of Interior, Mustafa Çiftçi. The letter serves as a collective warning regarding the deteriorating state of local democracy in Türkiye, specifically targeting the prolonged pre-trial detention of elected officials.

A Unified European Front on Democratic Values

The correspondence brings together voices from the most influential European democratic watchdogs, including the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), the European Parliament (EP), and the European Committee of the Regions. The signatories, including notable figures such as Nacho Sánchez Amor and Lord David Blencathra, emphasized that their engagement with Türkiye is fundamentally rooted in the shared pillars of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

The rapporteurs reminded the Ministry that as one of the oldest members of the Council of Europe and a candidate for EU accession, Türkiye is expected to uphold the democratic standards that govern these institutions.

The Imamoğlu Case: A Symbolic Milestone

A primary focus of the letter is the ongoing legal status of Ekrem İmamoğlu, the Mayor of Istanbul and President of the Union of Turkish Municipalities. The rapporteurs highlighted a troubling milestone: as of March 23, 2026, İmamoğlu’s pre-trial detention has entered its second year.

The letter cited several critical concerns regarding the judicial process:

• The Venice Commission Report: Citing a report dated October 24, 2025, the rapporteurs noted that if the detention of mayors fails to comply with Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights, it constitutes a direct blow to local democracy.

• Voter Rights: The letter argues that the current situation “undermines the rights of voters to freely choose their representatives,” thereby weakening the nation’s democratic fabric.

• Systemic Issues: Beyond high-profile figures, the rapporteurs expressed concern for numerous other opposition-affiliated local representatives who remain in prolonged detention.

A Call for Renewed Political Dialogue

Despite the sharp criticisms, the letter concludes with an invitation for partnership and cooperation. The rapporteurs reiterated their readiness to support Türkiye in fulfilling its democratic commitments. They stressed that progress in the areas of justice and fundamental rights is essential for the benefit of both Turkish citizens and the wider European community.

By addressing the Ministry of Interior directly, the European institutions are seeking “tangible and sustainable progress” to ensure that local governance in Türkiye aligns with the principles of the European Charter of Local Self-Government.

Source: anfnews