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Turkey

Turkey has turned a blind eye to Interpol Red Notices for a number of years, but things have changed.

Turkey's engagement with Interpol has been subject to meticulous scrutiny, revealing documented instances of politically motivated Red Notices directed against dissidents and government critics. The case of Can Dündar, a distinguished Turkish journalist critical of the government, serves as a poignant illustration of the misuse of Interpol's Red Notice system. Dündar found himself targeted with a Red Notice from Turkey, alleging charges of terrorism and espionage. This case starkly underscores the ability of authoritarian regimes to manipulate Interpol's tools with the explicit intent of suppressing dissenting voices well beyond their national borders.


The misapplication of Interpol's cooperative policing mechanism serves as a troubling case study in the broader effort by autocratic regimes to co-opt international institutions and deploy them against global democracy. Credible reports have underscored the potential for Turkey to misuse Interpol's Red Notice system, intensifying concerns about the risks faced by individuals subjected to Interpol Red Notices. These risks include not only the immediate threat of torture and ill-treatment but also the insidious potential for unlawful forced repatriation.


In alignment with our unwavering commitment to the responsible and ethical use of Interpol's tools, we actively lead campaigns advocating for the deletion of abusive Red Notices. Additionally, we proactively propose comprehensive solutions for individuals adversely affected by these unjust practices. These diligent efforts have yielded considerable success, resulting in the removal of abusive Red Notices and providing much-needed relief to individuals unfairly targeted by the misuse of Interpol's mechanisms.


Furthermore, we emphasize the paramount importance of fortifying accountability and transparency within Interpol. This proactive stance is crucial to prevent the exploitation and repurposing of the organization by authoritarian regimes. The misuse of Red Notices by member countries, including Turkey, raises significant concerns about the potential risks faced by individuals subject to Interpol Red Notices. These risks encompass the immediate threat of torture, ill-treatment, and the overarching concern of unlawful forced repatriation.


In conclusion, Turkey's interaction with Interpol has undergone rigorous scrutiny due to well-founded concerns about potential abuses and the misuse of Interpol's tools, particularly the Red Notices. Addressing these concerns mandates a collective and concerted effort to strengthen the accountability and transparency of Interpol's mechanisms. This collaborative endeavor is indispensable to ensure that Red Notices are not exploited for politically motivated purposes, thereby upholding international human rights standards within the intricate framework of international police cooperation. The challenge at hand is pivotal for Interpol and its member countries, including Turkey, requiring sustained commitment and vigilance to preserve the integrity of this vital international institution.


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