Turkish Court Releases Youth Activist Pending Trial Amid European Criticism

A Turkish court has released 23-year-old human rights and LGBTQ+ activist Enes Hocaogullari pending trial on charges including spreading disinformation and inciting public hatred following a speech critical of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government. Hocaogullari spoke at the Council of Europe meeting in Strasbourg, condemning the detention of opposition figures like Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu and alleging police violence against protestors. He denied the charges in court, asserting his innocence and right to freedom of expression, and requested acquittal. The case has drawn strong criticism from European institutions, including the Council of Europe and Amnesty International, which view the prosecution as unjustified and a threat to democracy and youth expression. The trial highlights ongoing tensions between Ankara and Western allies as Turkey seeks to improve diplomatic relations. The next hearing is scheduled for February 23, with Hocaogullari currently released under judicial control measures.