Mission Turkey

Despite the economic progress in light of the country’s potential future EU membership, the political situation in Turkey remains fragile and the social system is inadequate. During 2007 there were rising tensions between the Turkish army and the PKK Kurdish rebels, highlighting the discrimination problems facing ethnic minorities in Turkey. In addition, attacks on human rights are increasing, particularly in relation to the suppression of political opponents.

Project 1 :

Supporting victims of political violence - Istanbul

Activities :

With the support of several human rights associations working in Turkey, MdM aims to:

• produce an expert report on the medical and psychological consequences for recently released prisoners of long imprisonment, torture and solitary confinement;
• observe legal proceedings defending human rights;
• provide testimony about these exactions, particularly to the European Court on Human Rights.

Outlook :

Monitor the changing context and adapt MdM’s activities accordingly.

Project 2 :

Promoting access to healthcare for displaced persons - Disadvantaged area of Ayasma - suburb of Istanbul

Activities :

MdM has continued to provide medical and welfare services to people living in Ayasma through:

• a local partnership with a Turkish association, GOC’DER, and the implementation of a socio-medical project on access to healthcare, social rights and health education;
• monitoring what happens to the inhabitants of the area which is being demolished, and testifying to the difficulties they have in finding accommodation and accessing healthcare.

Outlook :

The programme was completed in September 2007. During the withdrawal period, we provided our Turkish partner, GOC’DER, with operational and financial support to enable it to become autonomous.

August 2008