The detention of Istanbul Mayor İmamoğlu, along with charges against elected officials, political activists, civil society representatives, businesses, journalists, and others since the start of the year, raises questions about Turkeys adherence to its longstanding democratic traditions.

The EU urges Turkish authorities to ensure full transparency and due process. As an EU candidate country and a long-standing member of the Council of Europe, Turkey is expected to uphold the highest democratic standards and practices.

Respect for fundamental rights and the rule of law are essential for the EU accession process. These principles will continue to be integral to EU-Turkey relations.