Human Rights Watch has categorised Turkey as an “occupying force” in northern Syria in a significant submission to the United Nations Committee against Torture. Released on Monday, the report highlights a range of human rights violations, with a particular emphasis on allegations of torture and abuses against refugees.
The designation by HRW stems from Turkey’s military operations in northern Syria since 2016, encompassing areas including Azaz (Ezaz), al-Bab (El Bab), Jarablus (Cerablus), Afrin (Efrîn), Tel Abyad (Girê Spî) and Ras al-Ayn (Serê Kaniyê). According to HRW, Turkey bears direct responsibility for numerous abuses in these territories, particularly relating to detention practices.
The report also documents civilian casualties resulting from Turkish airstrikes and ground operations, raising concerns over compliance with international humanitarian law. HRW asserts that civilians in Turkish-controlled areas face severe humanitarian challenges, including displacement and limited access to essential services.
Allegations of war crimes, including attacks on civilians and infrastructure, are detailed in the report, which scrutinises both Turkish forces and opposing factions. HRW urges immediate international intervention and humanitarian aid to address the dire situation in Syria’s Turkish-controlled regions.
Torture on rise in post-coup Turkey
In the aftermath of Turkey’s July 2016 coup attempt, HRW reports a concerning incidence of torture and ill-treatment in Turkish detention facilities. The organisation highlights specific cases, such as that of former teacher Eyüp Birinci, emphasising violations of legal protections against torture.
Refugees on target
HRW’s submission also criticises Turkey’s treatment of refugees, citing instances of mass pushbacks and unlawful deportations at borders. Specific cases, like that of Tajik activist Sukhrob Zafar, underscore the severity of human rights abuses faced by asylum seekers.
Femicide alarm
Domestically, HRW criticises Turkey for failing to effectively protect women from domestic violence, despite issuing protective orders. The report examines cases between 2019 and 2022, revealing systemic shortcomings in enforcement and support for victims.
Concluding with a number of recommendations, HRW calls on Turkey to improve investigations into torture allegations, reform laws to safeguard detainee rights, and cease unlawful pushbacks of asylum seekers. Transparent investigations into abuses in occupied Syrian territories are also urged.
The report’s unprecedented allegations and detailed findings are expected to spark international scrutiny as the UN Committee against Torture prepares to evaluate Turkey’s compliance with human rights standards.
