International Observer Speaks Up on Büşra Ersanlı’s Trial

Leiv K. Sydnes came to Turkey from Norway to observe the KCK Istanbul Main Case.  

He is following the case of Marmara  University Political Science Faculty professor Büşra Ersanlı as The Committee on Freedom and Responsibility in the conduct of Science (CFRS) Chairman. 

Aimed to raise a global awareness on the conduct of science and extend freedoms, CFRS is a committee of International Council for Science (ICSU).

In a mission to protect ICSU’s principle of the universality of science, CFRS draft reference materials as well as organize scientific meetings and observe the cases of scientists whose rights are violated. 

bianet interviewed CFRS Chairman Leiv K. Sydnes on the case of Prof. Ersanlı and the situation of scientists  in Turkey.

“Politicians can’t determine the science”

Sydnes told bianet that they focused on the working conditions, impediments, racial/ethnical attacks of scientist worldwide. 

He added that they have been following Ersanlı’s case for a long while and attempt to create awareness on the issue by releasing reports on the issue. 

Sydnes considered Ersanlı case as a serious violation of “universality of science” and underlined the importance of independence during scientific research. 

“The universality of science principle assures the working conditions of scientists and guarantees that the science is not determined by politicians."

Sydnes said Ersanlı’s trial was related to her research on the Kurdish issue and she was regarded as “suspicious” for that reason. 

“The situation of academy is unacceptable”

Reminding that they have been keeping a close eye on other right violations in Turkey, Sydnes said Turkey must change its practice in order to reach its national growth target in 2023. 

“The situation of academy is unacceptable. Turkey tops the list for right violations among academicians.”

“I believe that most academicians can’t have an independent research in Turkey. I know many cases where they are accused for defending scientific principles. I have read several interviews where university professors are having hard time working due to conditions. This is very serious.”

Emphasizing that they have other cases from Turkey, Sydnes pledged to continue their pursuit on Ersanlı’s trial. (BK/BM)

* Click here to read the article in Turkish.