YEREVAN, MAY 21, ARMENPRESS. Deputy Department Spokesperson Mark Toner says the United States is concerned that the Turkish parliament’s adoption of a constitutional amendment, which would lift the parliamentary immunity of more than 100 members of parliament, will have a chilling effect on freedom of speech across Turkey, “Armenpress” reports citing the official website of the US Department of State.

“A common tenet in democratic societies is equality before the law. However, we firmly believe that the freedom to engage in political speech – even speech which many find controversial or uncomfortable – should and must be protected for everyone. This is especially important when it involves speech by elected representatives of a country’s citizens. We are closely monitoring developments regarding this prospective legal change”, Toner said.

He stated that if this change results in a narrowing of space for political debate, it will erode the quality of Turkey’s democracy.