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Ombudsman Institution

2.4. Equality and Non-Discrimination

The most important principles of good administration in such crises are
the principles of justice, equality, and non-discrimination. Complying with
these principles will provide a great contribution in overcoming the crisis with
social consensus. It has been observed that during the response process, no
one has been discriminated against in the country because of their gender, age,
origin, or way of thinking. Türkiye introduced stay-home orders for those over
the age of 65 and those under 20 years old in accordance with the effect of
the disease on certain ages and the nature of citizens’ professions based on the
recommendation of the Scientific Board.

There has been no favoritism while implementing the restrictions based on
age as well as the exemptions from the restriction according to the nature of
citizens’ profession. For example, the follow-up and treatment procedures to
be followed by a patient who should be quarantined have not been determined
according to the status of the person. All citizens have been treated equally in
terms of both complying with administrative measures and being subject to
treatment protocols. No citizen has been exempted from the isolation practices
because of their financial status.

It has been observed during the implementation of administrative measures
that those who attempted to take advantage of the difficulty people are facing
by highlighting their political views on the aid and support campaigns provided
to the citizens were not allowed to do so, and that the service provider is the
government itself - not discriminating against any person.

2.5. Proportionality

The principle of proportionality, which is one of the principles of good
administration and stipulates that administrative procedures shall be carried
out in a way that suits the intended results, is a mandatory principle in terms
of administrative measures. Because of the administrative measures taken,
the society temporarily waives a few rights and freedoms, including certain
constitutional rights.

The good intention of citizens should not be abused, and those who abuse
citizens’ good intentions should be sanctioned strictly. As a matter of fact,

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