About the Submission
SRL Swiss has brought the criminal proceedings against investigators following the corruption investigations of 17 and 25 December 2013, and the related concerns regarding judicial independence, to the attention of the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers. The submission was filed in English on 10 November 2026 through the OHCHR Special Procedures online system.
The study examines, on the basis of documentary evidence, how the distinction between investigative duties and individual criminal responsibility was drawn, the impact of alleged political interference on judicial proceedings, and whether the defence could participate effectively. It focuses on the implications for independent judicial decision-making and the rule of law.
Scope of the Submission
The report considers reasoned judgments, hearing records, defence applications and relevant international documents together. It places removals and reassignments following the investigations, the charges against investigators and subsequent trial stages in chronological context. It distinguishes the convictions upheld on appeal in 2023 from the findings quashed and the ensuing proceedings in 2024–2025.
Key Issues
The submission addresses political characterisations made before the investigators’ convictions and allegations of pressure on judicial decisions. The failure to implement release orders issued in April 2015, and the proceedings against the judges who issued those orders, are examined in relation to safeguards for independent decision-making.
Regarding fair trial rights, the report examines access to digital material, the questioning of witnesses, and the opportunities available to prepare and present a defence. It also considers whether the reasoning specifically explains how actions performed in the course of official duties were found to establish criminal intent and individual criminal responsibility. Judicial assessments and defence objections are compared with reference to their supporting documents.
Request and Submission Status
SRL Swiss requests consideration of the documented concerns within the Special Rapporteur’s mandate, clarification from the Turkish authorities, and appropriate follow-up on judicial independence and effective defence safeguards. Receipt of the submission has been acknowledged. This acknowledgement does not constitute a UN assessment of its merits.
Full Report in English
The report submitted to the United Nations is available below.
Image: Palais Wilson in Geneva, home of the UN Human Rights Office (illustrative photograph). Foto: Fratami / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
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