Dr. Walter Baier, President of the Party of the European Left, the umbrella party for 26 left-wing political parties in European Union countries, sent a letter to Dr. Ian Borg, President of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.
On behalf of the Party of the European Left, Baier urged the Committee of Ministers to take decisive action regarding Abdullah Öcalan’s imprisonment, recalling that the European Court of Human Rights has repeatedly condemned Turkey for violating Öcalan’s rights, including the prohibition of inhuman or degrading treatment and the violation of the “Right to Hope.”
“Despite these rulings, Turkey has failed to act. The upcoming 15 September session offers a critical opportunity to insist on compliance, end Öcalan’s isolation, and establish mechanisms for review and potential release,” the letter stated.
The European Left stressed that Öcalan is also a principal negotiator for peace and democratic self-governance in the region: “His freedom and participation are essential not only for justice but for lasting peace, democracy, and stability.”
Baier called on the Committee of Ministers to act now, ensuring Turkey respects human rights and the rule of law.