International medical community calls for release of leading Turkish doctor
The Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME), together with the World Medical Association and four European Medical Organisations, calls for the immediate release of Prof. Şebnem Korur Fincancı, President of the Turkish Medical Association, who has been in pre-trial detention since 26 October.
Prof. Fincancı was imprisoned on charges of ‘propaganda for a terrorist organisation’ following an interview in which she called for an independent investigation into allegations of the use of chemical weapons. Her first hearing is scheduled to take place on 23 December 2022 in Istanbul.
“European doctors demand that the Turkish authorities release Prof. Şebnem Korur Fincancı immediately and unconditionally, as her detention only aims to sanction her legitimate human rights activities. We support the call for independent investigation into the reported use of chemical weapons and we appeal to the Turkish authorities to respect their obligations under international law.”
“We are deeply concerned by the charges faced by Prof. Fincancı, which are a gross violation of her freedom of speech. Her detention is arbitrary, abusive, and contrary to the most elementary fair trial rules. We urge for justice to be delivered fairly and impartially, and for all charges to be dropped.”
Prof Fincancı is a renowned forensic physician in Turkey and globally, who has been a long-time partner to leading medical and human rights organisations, acting with integrity and commitment to the ethical values of the medical profession. Updates on the hearing will be posted using the #FreeSebnem hashtag.
Read our full letter to Turkish authorities.