Freedom of Speech

Submitted by Edward Halper (United States), Jun 14, 2010 at 09:37

Thanks, Ianus. I was not aware of this. I wonder whether you or Dr. Pipes can tell us more.

Was Kursat Kayral request implemented? When did it become a crime to denounce Turkey and Ataturk? I'm a little suspicious about the recent dates of the request. I think there has been a sharp deterioration in freedom in Turkey during Erdoğan tenure. It is interesting that Ataturk, the founder of the secular state is still officially revered. My question is whether the situation you describe is long-standing or recent.

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