Two Kurdish Journalists Face Legal Action After Reporting Torture Allegations
November 25, 2025
Al Jazeera Earns Global Recognition with First International Emmy and Multiple Honors
November 26, 2025
November 25, 2025 – Turkey –
Ali Barış Kurt, a journalist imprisoned in Turkey, has had his conditional release postponed by six months, according to recent reports from 24–25 November 2025.
Kurt was handed a two-year and four-month sentence earlier this year, a conviction upheld by the highest court. He was sent to Maltepe No. 1 L-Type Prison on 8 February 2025 after the ruling.
The decision to delay Kurt’s release came from the Prison Administration and Observation Board, which cited his alleged “lack of remorse” and claimed he remained a “security risk.” According to his family, Kurt had not received any disciplinary infractions, making the postponement appear arbitrary. In a statement, Kurt insisted that he remains committed to journalism and truth regardless of the restrictions.
Critics argue the move reflects a broader pattern in which administrative and observation committees — rather than courts — wield power to extend or block conditional releases. These bodies have increasingly used subjective criteria such as “social adjustment” or “political belief” to determine eligibility for release. Observers warn that this system effectively bypasses legal safeguards and undermines the fairness of conditional-release decisions.
This case adds to growing concern over the shrinking space for independent journalism in Turkey. Even when judicial sentences are concluded, administrative bodies may continue to impose restrictions under vague pretexts.
In delaying Kurt’s release, the authorities not only restrict his personal freedom but also send a chilling signal to other journalists: even after serving their sentences, they may remain under indefinite supervision or be denied release. In a climate where press freedoms are already under pressure, such decisions threaten the autonomy of the media and the right to free expression.
Reference –
https://dusun-think.net/en/news/journalist-ali-baris-kurts-release-has-been-postponed/
