Criticism of Instagram restriction from Ruşen Gültekin: One-man regime threatens freedom of expression
On the program Zamanın Adaleti (Justice of the Time) broadcast on 12punto, Ruşen Gültekin made significant statements regarding the Instagram ban.
12punto
Legal expert Ruşen Gültekin answered questions from Mustafa Büyüksipahi on the program Zamanın Adaleti, broadcast on 12punto.
Ruşen Gültekin made statements on the program regarding the blocking of Instagram.
Discussing how social media platforms are regulated in Turkey and the impact of these regulations on freedom of expression, Ruşen Gültekin noted that existing laws are frequently amended. Pointing out that Law No. 5651 has been amended 14 times in 17 years, Gültekin emphasized that most of these changes were made with the intent to restrict freedom of expression.
Ruşen Gültekin argued that the government has a tendency to shut down social media platforms for political reasons. Specifically, he stated that authorities in Turkey imposed censorship on the platform after Instagram removed condolence messages for Ismail Haniyeh. Gültekin noted that laws regarding restrictions on social media content are increasing and that this harms freedom of expression.
Stating that the government has taken harsh measures against social media platforms, Gültekin said that banning these platforms restricts the rights of Turkey's internet users and leads to economic losses. He also noted that the content of social media platforms is being monitored to see if it aligns with the government's sensitivities.
ONE-MAN SYSTEM
Gültekin emphasized that a one-man government system can lead to such problems and pointed out that a parliamentary system could be more transparent and accountable. Furthermore, he stated that after the Constitutional Court annulled various laws, the government continued its practices by disregarding these rulings.
Finally, Gültekin emphasized that the public must raise its voice against these situations and highlighted the importance of defending freedom of expression. He stated that the restriction of social media platforms seriously threatens the public's access to information and freedom of expression.