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January 10, 2026 – Turkey –
Türkiye marked Working Journalists’ Day on January 10, 2026, with nationwide recognition of the role and risks of journalism, paying special tribute to media professionals who have lost their lives in the line of duty, particularly those reporting from the Gaza conflict zone. The annual observance also celebrates the 1961 law that introduced enhanced labour rights for journalists in Türkiye, including job security and fair wages.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan met with journalists in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, greeting members of the press and extending congratulations on the occasion. He emphasized the importance of the media in informing the public and maintaining democratic discourse, noting his hope to celebrate many more anniversaries alongside media professionals. Erdoğan’s participation was accompanied by senior government figures, reinforcing official acknowledgment of the day’s significance.
In a statement issued by Türkiye’s Communications Directorate on social media, officials expressed appreciation for journalists’ dedication to delivering “accurate, impartial, and reliable information” and commemorated those who died while reporting. The message highlighted the particular sacrifices of journalists covering conflict zones, stating that media workers killed in Gaza had “become the voice of humanity and conscience” through their efforts to document and share events from the front lines. This recognition coincides with reports that hundreds of journalists and media workers have been killed in Gaza since 2023 while covering the conflict, making it one of the most perilous assignment environments globally.
Türkiye’s tribute also underscored press freedom and the right to information as cornerstones of a democratic society. Officials reiterated the value of journalistic work under often dangerous conditions and reaffirmed commitment to supporting the profession’s legal protections and social recognition. The official commemorations reflected a broader international context in which media workers in conflict zones and politically charged environments face persistent threats and sacrifice.
Photo: 62-year-old Palestinian journalist Izzeddin Atiyye al-Masri passing on his journalistic experience to his 15-year-old nephew, Ahmed Hossam al-Masri, under Israeli attacks in Khan Yunis, Gaza on September 01, 2025.
References –
https://www.trtworld.com/article/f67f725657d6/amp?utm_source=chatgpt.com
