Upcoming Discussions in the Turkish Grand National Assembly
Preventing Violence Against Teachers, Judicial Process Speed-Up, and Public Sector Savings Measures on Parliamentary Agenda
This week in the Turkish Grand National Assembly, there is a flurry of activity as various important bills are being discussed in both the General Assembly and the committees.
One of the key issues under consideration is the prevention of violence against teachers. The General Assembly will soon begin deliberations on a proposed bill that seeks to amend the Teaching Profession Act. This regulation aims to increase penalties for crimes such as threats, insults, and assaults against all education workers by 50 percent. In cases of violent incidents, prison sentences cannot be postponed, and these crimes will now be considered grounds for immediate arrest, closing the path to trial without detention. Additionally, a new institution called the National Education Academy will be established to provide training for teacher candidates before their appointment.
In another development, the Parliament’s agenda includes the discussion of the 9th Judiciary Package by the Justice Committee. This proposal introduces new regulations concerning insult crimes, with provisions to include the crime of insult through voice, text, or video messages under the scope of advance payment. Moreover, only law school graduates will be eligible to serve as mediators, requiring a minimum of 5 years of seniority in the legal profession.
Furthermore, the Planning and Budget Committee will review a bill regarding savings measures in the public sector. This legislation grants the Ministry of Treasury and Finance the authority to monitor, audit, and report on savings measures. Personnel failing to comply with these measures will face sanctions. Additionally, steps will be taken in earthquake-stricken provinces to prevent a loss of population from affecting public services.
With these crucial issues on the agenda, the Turkish Grand National Assembly is poised to address pressing concerns related to violence in schools, judicial system efficiency, and public sector savings. Stay tuned for further updates on these deliberations.
