VIDEO. Peru's Supreme Court rejects extradition of Turkish citizen: An act of justice and humanity

Ricardo Sánchez Serra*.

On January 31, 2025, the Supreme Court of Peru made a unanimous and momentous decision by rejecting the extradition request of a Turkish citizen, who has taken refuge in the country. This citizen, a school teacher who belongs to the Hizmet Movement, the most pacifist Islamic organization, had been baselessly labeled a member of a terrorist organization by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The decision of the Peruvian Supreme Court is a clear act of justice and humanity that highlights the importance of protecting human rights and offering refuge to those fleeing persecution.

The Hizmet Movement and Persecution in Türkiye

The Hizmet Movement, known for its pacifist and educational approach within Islam, has been the target of a campaign of persecution by the Erdogan government. Without any basis, Erdogan has branded the movement as a terrorist organisation, using this label to justify the repression and persecution of its members, both in Turkey and in other countries. This campaign has included calls for extradition and kidnappings of Hizmet Movement members in various parts of the world.

International rejection of extradition requests

Peru is not the only country that has taken a firm stance against Turkey's extradition requests. Other states, such as Brazil, Panama, Germany, Great Britain, the United States, Canada and Sweden, have also rejected these requests, recognizing the unfoundedness of the accusations, the total lack of evidence and the serious human rights situation in Turkey (including arbitrary detentions, torture and lack of fair trials). These countries have also taken decisions to uphold democratic principles. This international rejection underlines the need to protect persecuted persons and ensure that they are not handed over to a regime that systematically violates human rights and whose judiciary does not provide guarantees of impartiality and justice.

Human rights violations in Erdogan's Türkiye

Independent international organizations have extensively documented human rights violations in Turkey under the Erdogan regime. There are no independent courts, and all opponents of the government face arbitrary arrest and imprisonment. Journalists are persecuted and many have been imprisoned, while numerous media outlets have been closed. These violations have created a climate of fear and repression in the country, where expressing opinions contrary to the government can result in serious consequences.

Peru's position and the future of bilateral relations

This rejection of extradition by Peru marks the second time that the country has refused to hand over Turkish citizens requested by the Erdogan government. However, it is expected that at the next consultation meeting between Peru and Turkey, scheduled for this semester in Ankara, Turkey will press for Peru to sign an extradition treaty.

Such a treaty could have serious repercussions for dozens of Turkish citizens from the Hizmet Movement living peacefully in Peru: they are hard-working and good people. If extradited, these individuals could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty in Turkey.

The importance of maintaining a human rights stance

We are aware that Peru should maintain good relations with Turkey, as the latter plays a significant role in the international arena. Strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with Turkey can bring strategic and commercial benefits. In addition, cooperation in various areas, such as trade, culture and education, can foster mutual understanding and strengthen Peru's position in the global arena.

At the same time, it is crucial that Peru maintains its stance of defending human rights and justice, and refuses to sign an extradition treaty with Turkey. Doing so would mean handing over people seeking refuge and protection to a regime that has repeatedly demonstrated its disregard for fundamental rights. The international community must support Peru in this decision and work together to protect those fleeing persecution.

Ultimately, the decision of the Supreme Court of Peru is an important step in the defence of human rights and justice. By rejecting the extradition request of a Turkish citizen, and for the second time, Peru sends a clear message that it will not tolerate unjust and arbitrary persecution. It is vital that this stance is maintained and strengthened in the future, guaranteeing the safety and protection of all those seeking refuge in the country.

*World journalism award “Honest Vision 2023”