DEM Party challenges 11th Judicial Package

DEM Party Group Deputy Chair Gülistan Kılıç Koçyiğit expressed her concerns regarding the leaked 11th Judicial Package during a press conference held at the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM). Stating, "If the leaked version is real, the situation is truly dire," Koçyiğit emphasized that they would not accept the package if it were to be formalized.

Koçyiğit noted that the government often leaks such drafts to gauge public reaction before moving them to an official platform. However, she stated that this draft is contrary to human rights and that they would not accept its formalization.

Koçyiğit said that the provisions in the draft, which propose up to three years of imprisonment for attitudes and behaviors contrary to one's biological sex at birth, pose a threat to freedom of expression and the existence of citizens. Stating that such laws are contrary to international conventions and the Constitution, Koçyiğit said, "The issue of equal citizenship is based on the foundation of freedom of expression and human dignity."

Koçyiğit also stated that the motions regarding Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, which are set to come before the TBMM General Assembly, are incompatible with the process. Opposing the extension of the duration for Turkey to keep troops in Syria and Iraq, Koçyiğit argued that such interventions are neither legitimate nor legal.

Drawing attention to defense spending, Koçyiğit stated that the share of defense expenditures in the 2026 budget is 11.4 percent. She expressed that this situation shows that the country's resources are being used incorrectly.

Criticizing the government's priorities, Koçyiğit said, "Children in this country cannot even buy a bagel, but a significant portion of our budget goes to defense spending."