Mr. President,

We thank both Special Rapporteurs for their presentations today and their valuable work. Turkey is pleased to have contributed to the work of the Special Rapporteurs and we further look forward to the visit of Special Rapporteur Kiai to Turkey this year.

Respecting human rights and the freedom of assembly plays a fundamental role in the effective functioning of a democracy. It also serves as vehicle for the exercise of many other civil, political, cultural, economic and social rights.

Turkey has encouraged the idea of a compilation of practical recommendations for the proper management of assemblies based on best practices and lessons learned. This compilation constitutes a valuable guide and may help to overcome possible shortcomings in this regard.

We acknowledge that in practicing this essential freedom individuals and states alike have rights and obligations. This framework should be defined by the rule of law and common sense.

As regards to the compilation, we agree that special attention should be given to the training of law enforcement officials in exercising their duties in this context.

Within the context of the Democratization Package, the scope of the freedom of assembly and association in Turkey has been extended. Accordingly, the Law on Assembly and Demonstration Marches has been rearranged to ensure democratic participation in the determination of venues and routes as well as the management of assemblies.

In conclusion, together with Costa Rica and Switzerland, Turkey will once again introduce a resolution on the protection and promotion of human rights in the field of peaceful protest during this HRC session. We hope that this resolution on this very important topic will find its echo within this august body.

Thank you.