The Attorney General Signals Review After Norwegian Police Assisted Turkey in Case Against Parliamentarian
Norwegian Attorney General initiates a review of procedures following criticism over police assistance to Turkey in a case against parliament member Seher Aydar.
The Norwegian Attorney General has announced a review of police procedures after it was revealed that Norwegian police assisted Turkish authorities in a case against Seher Aydar, a representative of the Socialist Left Party (Rødt). This assistance came under scrutiny after Aydar was called for questioning by Turkish officials, who have accused her of making propaganda for a terrorist organization due to two Facebook posts in 2018 related to a lawful demonstration and event promotion. The situation raises pertinent questions about cross-border legal cooperation, particularly concerning actions that may not be considered criminal under Norwegian law.
First state attorney Anne Grøstad indicated that requests for legal assistance from abroad can sometimes involve matters that are not punishable in Norway, thus complicating the legal responsibilities of Norwegian authorities. This has sparked significant controversy, as Aydar's case exemplifies the tensions between national sovereignty, freedom of expression, and international legal obligations. The Attorney General acknowledged that when central authorities refuse such requests upon receipt, the individuals involved may remain unaware of any ongoing legal proceedings against them.
The implications of this case extend beyond Aydar's situation, prompting a broader discussion about the interplay between national laws and international policing efforts. This review could potentially lead to changes in how Norwegian authorities handle similar requests from foreign governments, particularly those that may threaten individual rights or freedoms based on differing standards of what constitutes lawful political expression. The outcome will be closely monitored, as it may influence the ongoing dialogue about police cooperation with countries that have different legal frameworks concerning freedom of speech and political activism.