Bill > SRes257

This resolution addresses the arrest and detention of Ekrem Imamoglu, the Mayor of Istanbul, by the Turkish government, highlighting concerns about democratic backsliding in Turkey. The resolution notes that Imamoglu was detained on March 19, 2025, and formally arrested on March 23, 2025, on charges of corruption and terrorism, which numerous human rights organizations and international bodies consider baseless and politically motivated. The resolution points out that Imamoglu is a prominent opposition figure who was recently nominated as a presidential candidate and has been seen as a potential challenger to President Erdogan. It cites international criticism from the European Commission, United Nations, and Council of Europe, who have called for Imamoglu's immediate release and expressed concern about Turkey's democratic practices. The Senate resolves to call on President Erdogan to either present credible evidence against Imamoglu or release him, urge the Turkish government to uphold democratic values and ensure free and fair elections, and encourage the Secretary of State to engage diplomatically with Turkey regarding its anti-democratic behavior. The resolution is contextualized by Turkey's historical membership in NATO and its previous aspirations to join the European Union, making the current democratic erosion particularly significant.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-resolution/257/all-info