Human rights and equality institution of Turkey as a National Human Rights Protection Mechanism

This research examines whether the Human Rights and Equality Institution of Turkey (HREI of Turkey) can effectively fulfill its duties and responsibilities regarding the prevention of human rights violations with its current organizational structure and authorities. The main argument of this research is that HREI of Turkey can be successful if its organizational structure is shaped by international standards, and supported by a strong political will based on the rule of law. Within this context, first of all, this thesis explores the historical development of human rights ideology and law at international and national level. In the light of these findings, this thesis concludes that HREI of Turkey must be restructured in line with international standards in order to fulfill its responsibilities on developing and protecting human rights.