Physician Leaders Call for Immediate Cessation of Riot Control Agent Use in Turkey and Protection of Healthcare Workers

The World Medical Association (WMA), through an emergency resolution adopted during the 229th Council Session in Montevideo, has expressed grave concern over the use of riot control agents, including tear gas, plastic bullets, and water cannons by Turkish authorities against peaceful protesters. This follows the arrest of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, and other opposition figures, sparking widespread demonstrations across the country.

The WMA condemns the use of such agents, which have been linked to severe short-term and long-term health consequences, including respiratory distress, ocular damage, skin irritation, and psychological trauma. These harmful effects extend beyond protesters to include bystanders, residents, and medical personnel, raising serious concerns for public health and safety.

“The use of riot control agents not only violates the right to peacefully protest, but also exposes individuals to significant harm, breaching international human rights standards. As health professionals, we stand firm in our commitment to safeguard human rights and ensure that medical practitioners can work independently, without interference, to protect the health and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their political views,” said Dr. Jack Resneck, Chair of Council of the World Medical Association.

The WMA urges the Turkish authorities to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure justice for those affected, calling on them to uphold their obligations under international human rights law and conduct thorough, impartial investigations into allegations of human rights abuses against protesters.