25 Journalists Detained and 10 Arrested in the Last 70 Days
The latest press and freedom of expression report emphasized that numerous journalists were detained and arrested over a two-month period, alongside intense access blocks on digital platforms.
The press and freedom of expression rights violations report, shared with the public by New Party Vice Chairman Utku Çakırözer, laid bare the severe legal and physical pressures experienced over the past 70 days.
Press Freedom Report Announced
New Party Vice Chairman Utku Çakırözer shared a comprehensive press and freedom of expression rights violations report covering the months of August and September with the public. The announced report emphasized that censorship and judicial pressure have turned into a systematic method of governance.
Detentions and Arrests
According to the data in the report, 25 journalists were detained, 10 journalists were arrested, and house arrest decisions were issued against 2 journalists during the last 70-day period. Journalists appeared before judges at least 50 times in September, when the judicial year opened.
Investigations and Legal Processes
Within the scope of social media posts and ongoing investigations, numerous figures such as Oya Lale Özan Arslan, Ali Tarakçı, Tuğba Tekerek, Selahattin Günday, Fatih Ergin, Hüseyin Aykan, and İrem Delice faced legal proceedings.
Obstacles Faced by Field Workers
Field workers Fatih Coşkun, Oğuz Aksu, and three female journalists covering news in Urfa faced physical or verbal attacks and obstacles while performing their professions. This situation increased the difficulties of doing journalism in the field.
Digital Censorship and Access Blocks
Addressing digital censorship and access blocks, the report stated that approximately 1,350 social media accounts were blocked from access in September alone. The websites of T24, Evrensel, Kısa Dalga, and Mesopotamia Agency were also among the blocked outlets.
Blocked News and Content
News regarding the funding crisis, the "Şeytantepe" documentary, news concerning Özlem Çerçioğlu’s family's commercial relations with TOGG, the issues Hafize Gaye Erkan experienced with her neighbors, and content about Zülfikarlar Holding were shown among the blocked news items.