Media Freedom Coalition Statement on media freedom in Türkiye

The undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) express their deep concern about the escalating infringements on media freedom in Türkiye.  

Freedom of opinion and expression, including for members of the press, are universal human rights. The recent arrests of journalists, the blocking of social media accounts, as well as fines and broadcasting bans imposed on media outlets covering the demonstrations following the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu, the democratically elected mayor of Istanbul, and numerous others, undermine freedom of expression in Türkiye. Media freedom is important to the rights to freedom of opinion and expression. Journalists must be able to work freely and independently.  

We reiterate our unwavering commitment to protecting freedom of opinion and freedom of expression, including for members of the press, as essential pillars upon which any functioning democracy is based.  

We call on the Turkish authorities to ensure that journalists and media workers can conduct their work freely and safely, guaranteeing access to free, independent and pluralistic media, and to protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms to which Türkiye has committed itself.