Justice Minister Tunç: “With the New Constitution, We Will Make Turkey’s Century the Century of Justice and Fairness”
Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced that Turkey aims to continue its journey with a civil and participatory constitution as the country steps into the second century of its Republic. Speaking at the 2023-2024 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony of Hacettepe University’s Faculty of Law and Faculty of Communication, Tunç emphasized the significance of this new phase.
Tunç congratulated the graduating students, sharing in their excitement and noting Hacettepe University’s achievements globally and nationally. He proudly mentioned that Hacettepe Law graduates have consistently ranked in the top three in judiciary exams over the past four years.
The Minister acknowledged the academic staff’s contribution to raising educational standards and thanked them for nurturing competent legal professionals. He noted that the Ministry of Justice regularly consults these academicians in legislative matters, highlighting their indispensable role in legal developments.
### Neutral and Independent Judiciary is Essential
Emphasizing justice as the cornerstone of the state, Tunç remarked, “Justice is the guarantee of social peace and tranquility. For justice to be realized, a state of law is essential, and belief in the rule of law is necessary. For a state to be a state of law, the separation of powers—legislature, executive, and judiciary—must prevail, and the judiciary, one of these tripods, must be neutral and independent.”
Tunç said the judiciary comprises the prosecution, adjudication, and defense authorities, stressing the importance of the balance among these pillars. “Without one of these, the judiciary cannot function, and without the judiciary, the state of law ceases to exist.”
### Adapting Our Legislation to Contemporary Needs
Tunç outlined Turkey’s significant reforms and progress over the past 22 years, emphasizing the enhancement of the state of law and democracy. “We strengthened the rule of law with vital amendments in our Constitution. With reforms, we expanded the freedom to seek justice and made important amendments across various fundamental rights and freedoms, including women’s and children’s rights.”
“We aim to continue with these reforms. Our goal is to proceed with a democratic, civil, and participatory constitution in this new century of our Republic, making Turkey’s Century the Century of Justice and Fairness.”
### Advice for New Graduates
Addressing the graduates, Tunç advised them on the challenges of early professional years and encouraged them to persevere. “The initial years might be tough, but with patience and strength, success will follow. Whether you become judges, prosecutors, lawyers, or work in other legal professions, stay resilient.”
He mentioned the upcoming legal professions entrance exam and the introduction of the judge and prosecutor assistantship system, announcing that 1000 assistants would start their duties this year.
### Turkey Stands for Justice
Tunç highlighted ongoing injustices in regions like Palestine, emphasizing Turkey’s commitment to justice and fairness globally. “Even when the voice of the righteous is muted, Turkey will always stand by justice and fairness, advocating for human rights and amplifying the voices of our Palestinian brothers.”
“As you step into your roles, strive to hear the muted cries of the righteous amidst the loud clamor of the unjust.” Tunç expressed his trust in the graduates, wishing them success in their future endeavors.