Parliament Passes Seventh EU Adaptation Package

Extremely significant reforms are scheduled under the latest package, such as the removal of limitations on freedom of thought. Even though some of these reforms cannot yet be implemented in full, they demonstrate Turkey’s strong will regarding full membership in the EU.

The most significant regulation in the 37-article package, which the government passed with the support of the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), relates to the National Security Council (MGK). Under the new law, the MGK effectively loses its executive powers. A civilian will now be appointed to the Council’s Secretariat-General, whose composition will be suggested by the Prime Minister and approved by the President. The government will consult with the Chief of General Staff before appointing the military member.

The duty of the MGK, which will now meet evey other month, has been re-defined as, “ reaching advisory decisions regarding the designation, determination and implementations of the state ‘s security policies within the prescribed frameworks, determining a method for providing the necessary coordination, and reporting these advisory decisions to the Cabinet Council".

Insulting or deriding the Turkish nation, the Republic, the Assembly, or the integrity of the government, the ministries, the military or the judiciary will be punishable with 6 months to one year imprisonment. However, expressions made solely to criticize these institutions are exempted from criminal charges.

The package makes the finances of all state institutions, including the General Staff, subject to audits by the Government Accounting Office. The Presidency is excepted from this provision. University students will have the right to be members of associations in the fields of art, culture and science.

Omer Sahin / Ankara / TURKEY