The other trial and investigations were organised around businessman
and philanthropist Osman Kavala, who had pioneered efforts to promote
democracy, human rights, and multiculturalism in Turkey through his
companies and civil society organisations. Kavala has been behind bars since
October 18, 2017 on charges of “attempting to change the Constitutional
order” and “to overthrow the government.”7 The scope of Kavala’s
investigation was expanded through new police operations. In November
2018, police forces raided the homes of 13 academics and HRDs, accusing
7 Amnesty International: Do the right thing and free Osman Kavala (18.12.2020; Bianet): https://bianet.org/english/humanrights/236228-amnesty-international-do-the-right-thing-and-free-osman-kavala
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A DEFENSELESS DEFENSE
FOREWORD
9