The European Commission will deliver its annual monitoring report on Turkey 's preparations for EU membership today.  The report is expected to congratulate Turkey 's uneven progress towards meeting accession criteria, while highlighting areas of concern.

The report is expected to call for urgent action regarding the protection of minority and women's rights, the independence of the judiciary, influence of the military, continuing corruption and failures to protect freedom of religion.

The report is an important part of the EU accession process, upon which Turkey has been urged to, "focus its energies and renew its determination," by EU Commissioner Olli Rehn.

The Commission will drive home its criticisms by simultaneously publishing a second "accession partnership" report, laying out a series of goals for Turkey to meet, including the eradication of torture and the guarantee of freedom of religion within two years.

Kerim Yildiz, KHRP Executive Director, says, "We welcome that the European Commission is highlighting the need to see more concrete achievements for the benefit of all Turkish citizens, regardless of their origin."

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