09/12/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/12/2024 03:03
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joins the International Press Institute (IPI) and undersigned press freedom and freedom of expression groups in strongly condemning the ongoing and intensifying threats against prominent Turkish journalist Murat Ağırel. We are deeply alarmed by the persistent pattern of intimidation, surveillance, and death threats targeting Ağırel, which represent a severe assault on press freedom and the safety of journalists in Turkey.
Credit: Murat Ağırel's X account.
These threats and acts of intimidation are not isolated incidents but part of a broader, systemic issue affecting press freedom in Turkey, where independent journalists frequently face significant risks in their pursuit of truth. We urgently call on the authorities to thoroughly investigate these threats and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Escalating assault on press freedom: Murat Ağırel's harrowing year-long ordeal
The pattern of threats and intimidation against Ağırel has escalated significantly over the past year, with increasing intensity and frequency:
We are profoundly alarmed by the relentless death threats and the escalating harassment aimed not only at Murat Ağırel but also at his family. These brazen acts of intimidation are a stark reminder of the perilous environment in which independent journalists in Turkey must operate. We urge Turkish authorities to take immediate action to protect Ağırel and his family, thoroughly investigate these threats, and bring those responsible to justice, while upholding the principles of press freedom.
Signed
International Press Institute (IPI)
ARTICLE 19 Europe
Articolo 21
Association of Journalists, Ankara
Association of European Journalists (AEJ)
Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ)
Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ)
Danish PEN
European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF)
European Federation of Journalists (EFJ)
Index on Censorship
International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)
Journalists' Union of Turkey (TGS)
Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA)
Osservatorio Balcani Caucaso Transeuropa (OBCT)
PEN America
PEN Canada
PEN International
PEN Norway
Platform for Independent Journalism (P24)
Progressive Journalists Association (ÇGD)
South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO)
Swedish PEN
This statement was produced by IPI as part of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), a Europe-wide mechanism which tracks, monitors and responds to violations of press and media freedom in EU Member States and candidate countries, funded by the European Commission