The European Christian Political Party (ECPP) is disappointed by the Turkish government’s reaction to the European Parliament resolution condemning the targeted expulsion of foreign Christians and journalists. ECPP finds it deeply concerning that Türkiye refuses to acknowledge its failure to uphold freedom of religion and freedom of expression.
Over recent years, Türkiye has banned more than 300 foreign Christian missionaries from re-entering the country, labelling them threats to national security without evidence, trial, or any meaningful possibility of appeal.
Last week, the European Parliament adopted a resolution strongly condemning the targeted expulsions of foreign journalists and foreign Christians carried out under unsubstantiated national-security pretexts and without due process. The resolution deplores the lack of access to evidence and meaningful judicial review, and reaffirms the European Parliament’s unwavering support for Christians and for freedom of religion or belief.
In response, Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a communiqué dismissing the Parliament’s resolution and claiming that “it does not correspond to reality.” The statement also rejected what it called interference in judicial processes and warned that the resolution runs counter to efforts to develop EU–Türkiye relations, accusing the European Parliament of acting against Türkiye and attempting to interfere in its internal affairs.
Valeriu Ghilețchi, ECPP President:
“We stand with the Christians and journalists in Türkiye, especially the missionaries who have been banned from returning to their homes. While developing EU–Türkiye relations can be mutually beneficial, it must be conditional on respect for religious freedom. The Turkish government’s reaction does not inspire confidence that it is willing to improve in this regard.”
ECPP MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen, initiator of the resolution:
“The message of our resolution remains crystal clear: Turkish authorities must stop obstructing churches and missionaries. If Türkiye wants closer ties with the EU and a renewed customs union, it must show it takes religious freedom seriously, including allowing the Gospel to be preached.”
ECPP reiterates its full support for the European Parliament’s resolution and stresses that freedom of religion and freedom of expression are fundamental rights. The Council and Commission, particularly the High Representative for Foreign Affairs (HR/VP) Kaja Kallas, should take this issue seriously and raise it systematically in political dialogue with Türkiye. If Türkiye continues to refuse action, European countries should consider further measures, including the suspension of current EU accession negotiations, as it has already been requested by the European Parliament in its 2019 resolution.
