Professor Attila Yayla was brought to trial after a panel discussion in which he suggested the early Turkish Republic was not as progressive as it's painted.

The prosecutor has asked the judge to impose a five-year prison sentence.

The trial has once again highlighted the limits on free speech in Turkey - a key concern of the European Union.

Turkey is pursuing a long-term ambition to become an EU member.

This trial has also become a test of academic freedom in Turkey.

Pictures and statues

Professor Yayla was charged with "insulting Ataturk" - the revered founder of modern Turkey - after he argued that the early years of the Turkish Republic were not progressive, politically.

He also warned that, as Turkey moved closer to Europe, Europeans would inevitably question why Turks display so many pictures and statues of Ataturk.

The professor was vilified by the Turkish press, suspended from work at an Ankara university - and brought to trial.

Professor Yayla, a well known liberal, denies the charge of insult and argues that academics must be guaranteed freedom of expression, to pursue their research.

EU pressure

This hearing comes as the Turkish parliament prepares to debate amending another law that restricts free speech.

Article 301 on "insulting Turkishness" has been used to prosecute dozens of writers and intellectuals, including Nobel prize winner Orhan Pamuk.

The EU has been pressing for change to the law for well over a year but the government has faced stiff opposition from nationalists both within the ruling party, and in opposition.

But changes to the law which protects Ataturk are not up for discussion.

(BBC)

<< Back