ANKARA - Turkish Prime Minister's Office Human Rights Chairman Dr. Vahit Bicak stated that a new toll-free hot-line for human rights complaints will soon be established in Turkey.
The telephone number, expected to be a 3-digit one, will be available for use throughout Turkey in September.
''We have been working on the toll-free human rights hot-line for the past one year. The three digit number will be accessible from all Turkish cities and will help citizens to relay their complaints and wishes on human rights issues,'' said Bicak.
Dr. Bicak indicated that his office recently asked for bids for the telephone project. ''The telephone hot-line will cost about 300,000 Euros and will be financed by the European Union,'' told Bicak.
In an exclusive interview with the A.A, Dr. Bicak stressed that his office is constantly in pursuit of protecting and promoting human rights in Turkey.
''Our activities focus on four points. One of our priorities is to work and cooperate with other government agencies to promote a greater understanding of human rights at public and private institutions,'' remarked Bicak.
Bicak further stressed that his office tries to bring human rights standards to the international level. ''We scrutinize every complaint carefully'' he said.
Bicak told the A.A correspondent that his office works in coordination with 930 human rights councils throughout Turkey. ''To this day, we have printed 500,000 posters and banners, 200,000 brochures and recorded films to promote a better understanding of human rights in Turkey,'' expressed Bicak.
According to Bicak, at a time when Turkey is preparing to start entry talks with the EU, the issue of human rights deserves the highest attention.
Currently, individuals can get in touch with any of the 930 centers in Turkey to file complaints on human rights. ''We are working on a web based project and will soon officially establish a 3-digit phone line that will be free to callers. Our citizens will be able to call this number and talk directly to experts in their own city,'' said Bicak.
In addition to filing complaints on the phone, Turks will also be able to report their complaints or wishes through the internet. ''Once a complaint is filed, we will investigate the issue and report back to the citizen involved,'' indicated Bicak.
Bicak also mentioned that the provincial human rights councils act as a ''jury.'' ''Our councils are comprised of 16 members. Out of this 16 individuals, only two are public officials. The others come from NGOs and private groups. Such councils make decisions based on the majority of votes.''