Emphasis on the Rule of Law from CIU on Lawyers’ Day

Prof. Dr. Necdet Basa, a faculty member of the Faculty of Law Cyprus at the International University (CIU), drew attention to the current situation in Türkiye in terms of the rule of law, democratic values, and social cohesion in a statement he wrote on the occasion of April 5, Lawyers’ Day. He emphasized the growing importance of protecting the constitutional order and uniting around shared values, pointing to the sensitivity of the present circumstances.

Stating that Türkiye is going through a challenging transitional period, Prof. Dr. Basa noted that society is struggling to develop a common understanding of fundamental values. He remarked that tensions between individuals and institutions have deepened, reaching a level that could threaten social unity.

In his evaluation of the fundamental characteristics of the Republic, Basa recalled the necessity of preserving the structure shaped by the principles and values of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. He stated that the legal profession has historically stood by those who have suffered injustice and emphasized that lawyers bear responsibilities within the framework of the rule of law.

Regarding legal practices, Prof. Dr. Basa pointed out that prolonged detention periods, practices restricting freedom of expression, and violations of the right to a fair trial do not align with a modern understanding of law. He stressed the importance of upholding the principle that “the benefit of doubt goes to the defendant.”
In conclusion, Basa highlighted that lawyers play a decisive role in safeguarding the right to seek justice and the right to a fair trial. He underlined that justice is a fundamental element in maintaining a sustainable social order.