The UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression David Kaye during his first official visit will assess the situation of freedom of speech in Turkey.  Human rights activists have repeatedly criticized the Turkish government's actions, after the military coup attempt of July. However, as Kaye said, violation of human rights and freedom of speech in Turkey had taken place before that as well.

Kaye, who will visit Turkey by invitation of the Government, will examine the issues of media independence, safety of journalists, university lecturers, and activists. He will meet with the representative of the executive, legislative and judicial powers. On November 18, Kaye will give a press conference in Ankara, summing up the results of his visit. The last time the UN expert on freedom of expression visited Turkey was 1996.