Turkish human rights defenders still facing charges

This week, after a marathon court hearing, a court ordered the release on bail of eight human rights activists. These activists had been arrested with a number of other people in the last few months following their attendance at a human rights forum. While their release is welcomed, they are still facing very serious charges. There have also been more arrests this week of journalists and human rights activists. These cases highlight that the climate of repression in Turkey that has imprisoned thousands and led to many more being dismissed from their jobs continues.