Purpose
There has been a significant increase in allegations of abuse and torture in prisons in Turkey. In order to assess this situation, the Human Rights Foundation of Turkey has received applications to determine the nature of the torture and abuse occurring in prisons, who is being targeted, and to identify the physical and psychological consequences, with the aim of preventing further violations.
Conclusion
In order to protect the right to life of those held in prison, all barriers to accessing healthcare must be removed, a holistic approach to physical and mental health must be adopted, and the nature of the illness, the individual and the prison’s capabilities must be assessed together during the treatment process. In decision-making processes concerning sick prisoners, there should be no criteria other than medical condition to protect the right to life and health, and Teaching and Research Hospitals and University Hospitals should have a say.
This study was presented as an oral presentation at the 6th International and 22nd National Forensic Sciences Congress, held from April 30 to May 3, 2026.