Turkey fails the test on internet freedom: The report card remains unchanged

The 2025 Freedom on the Net report, prepared by the Washington-based Freedom House, addressed Turkey's status regarding internet freedom. In the report, which evaluated 72 countries, Turkey was placed in the "not free" category with a score of 31. This score is determined on a scale where 0 is the least free and 100 is the most free.

The report stated that, along with Turkey, countries such as Egypt, Pakistan, Russia, and Venezuela have also experienced a decline in internet freedom. It was noted that governments in these countries have increased restrictions on online content and taken harsher measures during protests. It was emphasized that in Turkey, controls over social media have tightened, particularly since the Gezi Park protests.

INTERNET RESTRICTIONS IN TURKEY

The report stated that access to social media platforms in Turkey has been restricted during protests and that many social media accounts have been blocked. For example, during demonstrations against Syrian refugees in Kayseri in July 2024, internet access was restricted for a week. Additionally, during protests related to the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu in March 2025, access to social media was blocked for 42 hours.

The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) of Turkey blocked Instagram for nine days in August 2024. This decision was made after the platform removed posts made following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Furthermore, the Cybersecurity Law adopted in March 2025 includes regulations that could restrict online freedom of expression by granting authorities broad data access rights.

ÖZTURAN'S ASSESSMENTS

Freedom House Turkey rapporteur Gürkan Özturan stated that the report shows the digital space is becoming more oppressive worldwide. Özturan emphasized that the restriction of access to social media and the increase in content removal orders in Turkey are narrowing freedom of expression. However, he also expressed that these pressures highlight the importance of the struggle for digital rights.

EFFECTS OF THE BUDGET CRISIS IN THE US

Budget cuts in the US have also affected Freedom House's reporting activities. It was stated on the website containing data on Turkey that the report was shortened due to budget constraints. Meanwhile, the US Senate has approved a temporary budget bill to reopen the federal government.

News Source: 12punto