Council of Europe visits Enes in prison

Council of Europe delegation has visited detained youth delegate and LGBTI+ activist Enes Hocaoğulları in Sincan Prison. The delegation called for his release, stating that “there is no valid justification.” This was reported by KaosGL. 

Led by Congress of Local and Regional Authorities President Marc Cools, the delegation visited Enes during their trip to Turkey on 4–5 September.

According to ÜniKuir, the delegation shared their assessments at a press conference on 5 September at Ankara Hilton Hotel, following meetings with the Deputy Minister of Justice, Ankara Bar Association, and civil society organizations.

Why was Enes arrested?

LGBTQI+ activist from Turkey, Council of Europe youth delegate and ÜniKuir’s International Relations Coordinator Enes Hocaoğulları had spoken at the Council in March, highlighting imprisoned mayors in Turkey and police violence faced by young people during the 19 March protests.

Addressing the Council with the words “Young people in Turkey are saying enough,” Enes was detained on 5 August at Ankara Esenboğa Airport and arrested the same day on charges of “spreading misleading information” and “inciting hatred and hostility.”

Congress President Marc Cools condemned his arrest as “a clear violation of freedom of expression,” calling it “unacceptable, direct retaliation for legitimate participation in Council of Europe work.”

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