Media freedom in Turkey, which has never been free from pressure, is now experiencing one of the darkest periods in its history. Independent journalism struggles against political pressure, legal harassment, and censorship. Throughout 2024, violations recorded by the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) consortium have positioned Turkey as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists. More than 128 journalists have been subjected to legal pressure, while numerous media outlets have been shut down or blocked. Systematic state repression continues to suffocate Turkey’s media landscape.

According to MFRR’s Europe-wide report, 942 press freedom violations were recorded in the European Union member states, while 606 violations were documented in candidate countries. Turkey, in particular, has witnessed severe cases of judicial harassment and physical threats. Arrests, detentions, and imprisonments of journalists were among the most frequent violations in candidate countries, with Turkey and Georgia leading in such cases.

Increasing Legal and Physical Pressures

Legal frameworks remain the most commonly used tool for suppressing journalism in Turkey. Charges such as spreading terrorist propaganda or insulting state officials are frequently deployed to intimidate independent journalists. New legislative efforts, such as the ‘foreign influence agent’ bill, threaten to increase penalties against journalists, further tightening state control over........

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