EU's Rehn: "The EU is monitoring freedom of the press in Turkey"

Speaking before the EU-Turkey Joint Parliamentary Committee yesterday, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn stressed the importance the EU places on freedom of expression, the bedrock of any liberal democracy. "Last year there were positive developments, as the infamous Article 301 was revised," he said. "We are monitoring its implementation and will present an assessment in the context of the next enlargement package. Unfortunately certain recent developments bring me back to this topic yet again." He explained, "I'm thinking this time of freedom of the press, in particular the recent procedure (tax evasion fine) launched against the Dogan press group. Let there be no misunderstanding: one thing is a tax dispute between the state and a private company, and obviously the commission cannot and does not intend to interfere in this. Another thing is the lack of any conciliation and a financial sanction which challenges the economic viability of an independent press group. This clearly touches upon freedom of expression, which is the cornerstone of any open society. I understand there is a legal procedure ongoing; the commission will follow this very closely, keeping in mind the principles of proportionality, impartiality and independence of the judiciary."