On the occasion of the start of the court hearing in the so-called Kobanê trial in Ankara, the German Federal Government expressed its commitment and concern. The Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Aid in the Federal Foreign Office, Bärbel Kofler, stated: "The harsh and internationally repeatedly criticized actions of the Turkish authorities against the HDP and its members fuel doubts that the trial in Ankara, which begins today, is suitable for coming to terms with the tragic events in connection with the so-called Kobane protests in 2014. Those who seek to criminalize political expression are laying hands on the foundations of democracy."

Call for release of Selahattin Demirtaş

Kofler said, "We will closely monitor the further proceedings and expect that rule of law standards will be respected." In addition, the Human Rights Commissioner demanded, "In particular, I call on Turkey not to persecute Selahattin Demirtaş with further questionable charges, but to finally release him in accordance with the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights."