Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

A group of 142 lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle have called on President Biden to address alleged human rights violations in Turkey during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Washington for the NATO Summit.

In a letter to President Biden, the lawmakers accused the Turkish government of going after critics of the current president in an effort to “silence” them. The lawmakers’ letter also pointed to specific instances of transnational repression, such as the targeting of Enes Kanter Freedom, a former NBA player and critic of Erdoğan. They noted how the Turkish government has persecuted Freedom’s family, placed an Interpol red notice and bounty on him, and forced the transfer of over 100 Turkish nationals since the 2016 coup attempt, many of whom faced torture, denial of legal rights, and coerced confessions.

The lawmakers wrote, “We urge you, President Biden, to prioritize human rights and press the Turkish government to cease its transnational repression campaign, unconditionally release political prisoners, and restore the rule of law. Your intervention is crucial to upholding the values of democracy and human rights on the global stage.”

This development comes after a State Department’s 2023 report noted significant human rights issues in Turkey. Despite these acknowledgments, the administration has maintained strategic relations with Turkey, recognizing its role as a key NATO ally and its efforts in hosting Syrian refugees.