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Free Speech is Under Assault in Turkey

Floor Speech

Date: March 17, 2016
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights Foreign Affairs

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Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, free speech and the freedom of the press are under assault in Turkey.

No longer can the United States turn a blind eye as an increasingly authoritarian regime continues to crack down on virtually all critical voices. The harassment, intimidation, and prosecution of dissenting journalists and citizens as well as the government takeover of critical media outlets represents the antithesis of free speech and a free press. These are not the actions of a nation that respects democratic values.

Beyond the obvious consequences, by continuing on this path, the regime risks destabilization and pushing the persecuted into the arms of Islamist extremism. Right now, today, Turkey's leadership should embrace the marketplace of ideas that is a part of any vibrant, real, and sincere democracy.

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