The AEJ Cyprus Section is following with deep concern the growing number of arrests, detentions, and judicial restrictions targeting journalists in Turkey.Journalistic activities, including news reporting, commentary, investigative journalism, and social media posts, are increasingly being criminalized and subjected to legal prosecution. Journalists and independent or opposition media outlets have become targets of mounting pressure from the authorities.
These developments raise serious concerns about freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and the public’s fundamental right to access information.

Following the recent crackdown on Halk TV, investigative journalist Murat Ağırel was arrested while already under house arrest, reportedly in connection with a news story that he had neither completed nor published.

Such actions pose a serious threat to independent journalism and undermine the fundamental democratic principles of press freedom and freedom of expression.
As the AEJ Cyprus Section, we stand firmly in solidarity with all our colleagues who continue to defend press freedom, freedom of expression, and the public’s right to information. We also express our full support for journalists’ associations and professional organizations in Turkey in their ongoing efforts to protect independent journalism.

We call for the immediate release of all journalists detained or imprisoned solely for carrying out their professional duties and urge the Turkish authorities to respect and uphold fundamental democratic rights and press freedoms.

Journalism is not a crime. Press freedom is a fundamental pillar of democracy.

Source: Aej.gr