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Since the failed coup of July 2016 Turkish authorities have arrested over 50,000 people. Only a few days ago 11 senior members of the Turkish Medical Association were arrested for voicing opposition to Turkish military incursion into Syria. In addition to this sad record around 150,000 people have both had their passports revoked and lost their jobs. It seems that the witch hunt spares no one, including journalists, teachers, soldiers. police officers and public servants. These massive arrests have created a climate of fear throughout the country. The UN have raised the alarm and the European officials warn about the degradation in the rule of law and democracy. Without any doubt, democracy in this country has gone downhill. Indeed, a country where anyone can be suspected of involvement in plots against the President is a Police State. Yet, the EU authorities seem to be paralysed because of the threats made by the Turkish leader. He repeats endlessly that he could at any time decide to open the gates for refugees who want to settle in Europe. And he talks about 3 million people identified as refugees in his country. It should be noted that negotiations with Turkey are ongoing for joining the EU. Of course, this dialogue is a farce. Meanwhile, many Turkish citizens live today under the threat of an authoritarian regime that stifles democracy. This infringement of basic rights must be denounced.

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