Dr. Şebnem Korur Fincancı, President of the Turkish Medical Association (TTB), pointed out a looming risk to the organisation’s independent status and democratic function, especially in the context of the upcoming trial of TTB Central Council members on 30 November in Ankara. In an interview with Özgür Politika newspaper on Tuesday, she expressed serious concerns about the Turkish government’s hostility towards the TTB, stating that the government deems it “harmful”.
The trial is seen as a critical juncture for the TTB, with many viewing the proceedings as unjustified. Prof. Dr. Nergis Erdoğan, President of the Istanbul Medical Chamber (İTO), stated her expectation of a dismissal, citing the illogical nature of the case.
This legal battle comes amid a broader context of governmental scrutiny and pressure on the TTB, particularly following Dr. Fincancı’s call for an investigation into the alleged use of chemical weapons by the Turkish Armed Forces. Her stance has been a primary factor in the government’s targeting of her and the association.
Dr. Fincancı and her colleagues have consistently underscored the TTB’s role in critiquing state actions and advocating for public health. This stance, however, has led to increased tension with the government, reflecting broader issues of freedom of expression and the independence of professional bodies in Turkey.
