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February 26, 2025 – Turkey –
Global press freedom and human rights organizations have issued a strong and urgent call for the Turkish government to immediately release detained journalists, human rights defenders, and political prisoners. This comes amid growing concern over deteriorating prison conditions and the health risks posed by overcrowding, particularly as new COVID-19 cases resurface across the region.
Dozens of journalists remain behind bars in Turkey, many of whom were imprisoned for reporting on sensitive political issues or for their affiliation with independent media outlets. Advocacy groups, including the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF), and UNI Global Union, argue that their continued detention constitutes a direct attack on press freedom and democratic accountability.
The call to action emphasizes that many of the detained journalists have not been convicted of any crime, and are being held under pretrial detention for extended periods without due process. Among them are reporters who covered Kurdish issues, anti-government protests, and corruption allegations—topics that the Turkish government has increasingly sought to suppress in recent years.
These organizations also highlighted that Turkey remains one of the world’s leading jailers of journalists. Despite international pressure, authorities have continued to arrest media professionals under broad anti-terror laws, often accusing them of “spreading propaganda” or “supporting terrorism” for critical reporting or social media activity.
Beyond the press freedom implications, there is growing alarm over the health and safety of detainees. Turkish prisons are reported to be overcrowded, lacking in proper medical care and hygiene. The renewed concern about potential COVID-19 outbreaks inside these facilities adds urgency to the global demand for the immediate release of those unjustly imprisoned.
The international coalition of unions, press freedom groups, and human rights defenders insists that Turkey must uphold its legal obligations under international human rights law. They are calling on the government not only to free journalists but to take broader steps toward restoring press freedom and safeguarding democratic space within the country.
Reference –
Urgent call on Turkish authorities to release detained journalists
