BY SABAHAT DEMIR
TURKIYE- In years past, French historians stated that the so-called Armenian genocide allegations should be discussed between historians by examining documents. But the West, which supposedly prioritizes science, turned its back on science by ignoring the scholars' decision.
European Union member states, which are urging Turkey to change Article 301, contrary to their principles, have begun one by one to enact laws to punish denial of the Armenian `genocide.'
Western countries, which also put into force of laws forbidding denial of the so-called Armenian genocide, have revealed that their loyalty to the principles of European civilization is just a show.
Angry at suffering a clear wrong, we have written on the matter and made speeches, while others organized panels.
Unfortunately this has accomplished little.
Criticisms have been voiced that Turks don't seem very active, as while the Armenian diaspora's efforts in Western countries are heating up, our premier's proposal of a joint commission of Turkish and Armenian historians to discuss the issue in light of documents hasn't gained any ground among Armenians. But everybody has something to do for this cause.
Here, Labor Party (IP) leader Dogu Perincek blazed a trail by providing an example of how a cause can be defended bravely.
What did he do?
By traveling to Switzerland -- which has made it a crime to deny the genocide allegations -- with documents in hand, Perincek showed the courage and bravery to say `the so-called Armenian genocide is an imperialist lie.'
In other words, he showed how to wage a democratic fight by attracting world attention to the issue.
He demonstrated to the entire world that Switzerland , which arrogantly calls itself a land of freedom, in reality lacks freedom of speech.
Perincek stood in court in Switzerland for his remarks. A prejudiced judge sentenced him to pay 9,000 Swiss franks in lieu of 90 days in prison. Perincek said he would appeal the decision.
Perincek was welcomed by his supporters with great enthusiasm when he came back to the country a few days ago. I hope that Perincek's brave stance and cause will be a good example to all those who love their land and want to defend the rights of the public.