Pinar Selek trial postponed for ninth time by Istanbul court

The Istanbul Assize Court has postponed the trial of Pinar Selek to February 5, 2027. This marks the ninth postponement of the proceedings since 2023. Defense lawyers noted that the trial has been characterized by frequent changes in judges at nearly every hearing.

Selek, a sociologist, was originally arrested and tortured by the Turkish state in 1998 due to her research on the Kurdish community. The trial has drawn significant international attention, with a delegation of over 30 members and a large presence from the Istanbul Bar Association, including its president and approximately one hundred human rights lawyers.

International observers, including Antoine Kouchner representing France Universités, have called for respect for academic freedom. French deputy Arnaud Saint-Martin also attended, describing the proceedings as a political trial that has lasted too long. Despite the delays, Selek stated that the high level of public participation demonstrates continued courage in the face of repression.