WAN – Legal and civil society organizations reported after inspections in 9 prisons that “Even the most basic human rights of prisoners have been suspended and isolation has been intensified to the highest level.”

 

Legal and civil society organisations in Wan prepared a report on 9 prisons they visited. Association for Assistance and Solidarity with the Families of Prisoners and Convicts (TUHAY-DER), Association of Lawyers for Freedom (ÖHD), Wan (Van) Bar Association, Health and Social Service Workers' Union (SES), Wan-Colemêrg (Hakkari) Medical Chamber announced the report on 9 prisons in Serhat (East Kurdistan in Turkey) and Black Sea regions. ÖHD member Özgür Ecer announced the report covering Van F; Van, Ahlat, Beşikdüzü T; Patnos, Kalkandere, Giresin Espiye L and Iğdır S Type high security prisons.

 

PANDEMIC RESTRICTIONS CONTINUE

 

Özgür Ecer noted that hospital referrals for prisoners were delayed or not made, and in some prisons, prisoners refusing mouth searches and handcuffs were denied referrals. A book quota 3 to 10 was enforced; Kurdish books and letters were not given to prisoners because they were “not translated”. Opposition newspapers were not delivered and watching opposition TV channels was technically blocked. 

 

Ecer also reported that meals were insufficient and of poor quality, and pandemic related bans on sports, workshops, and courses continued. Prisoners were isolated both from activities and each other, under severe solitary conditions, with their socialization opportunities completely removed. 

 

Routine cell searches had become excessive, with military discipline imposed on prisoners during these searches. 

 

FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

 

Ecer read the recommendatons as follows:

 

"*Patnos L-Type Closed prison must be closed due to its old, damp, and unsuitable living conditions. 

 

*Even the most basic human rights of prisoners have been suspended and isolation is at its highest level. Phone rights should be expanded and inmates should be allowed phone calls with everyone on their visitor list. 

 

*Socialization and communal activities are essential, especially for those in high-security prisons, who should not be subjected to long or indefinite social isolation. 

 

*Restrictions on access to books, newspapers, and TV must end to guarantee prisoners’ freedom of expression and right to information. 

 

*Prisoners with severe illnesses must have access to healthcare, and alternatives or sentence postponements should be considered. 

 

*Arbitrary practices by prison administrations must cease, and Observation Boards should be abolished.”