Association issues strong response to threats against journalist Murat Ağırel and his family

The Journalists Association of Turkey (TGC) has issued a statement expressing its concern regarding the systematic threats and targeting of Cumhuriyet newspaper columnist Murat Ağırel and his family by anonymous accounts over a long period. The Association stated that these threats pose a major danger to press freedom.

In an assessment made by the board of directors, the following was stated: “The systematic targeting and threatening of our member, Cumhuriyet newspaper columnist Murat Ağırel, and his family online for a long time is concerning in terms of press freedom. It is of great importance that these attempts against our colleague and his relatives are investigated seriously and that those responsible are brought to justice. As the TGC, we call on the Ministries of Interior and Justice to immediately implement effective and preventive mechanisms regarding threats against journalists, and we invite judicial bodies to fulfill their duties by upholding press freedom.”

Pointing out that the threats faced by journalists are not only a violation of individual rights but also an interference with the public's right to receive information, the statement continued: “Targeting, threatening, and pressuring journalists is not only a violation of individual rights but also a serious interference with the public's right to receive information. The Turkish Penal Code defines threats, insults, and targeting as crimes; it clearly sets out the state's obligation to conduct effective investigations and take protective measures against such acts.”

UNDERLINED PRESS FREEDOM

The statement drew attention to the fact that freedom of the press and expression are guaranteed by Articles 26 and 28 of the Constitution and Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. It was emphasized that the ongoing exposure of Ağırel and his family to threats from anonymous social media accounts is incompatible with democratic values and that these incidents entirely damage press freedom. The Association's management requested that authorities take the necessary steps rapidly.

The Association's statement also included the following remarks:

“We remind everyone once again that journalism is not a crime, but threatening and targeting are. We present to the public that we will stand against all kinds of pressure and attacks on our colleagues. We call on all politicians, including those in government and the opposition, to demonstrate a common-sense approach that respects the importance of freedom of the press and thought.”

While the TGC demanded an effective investigation into the ongoing threats against Murat Ağırel and his family, it noted that such incidents undermine the freedom of thought and expression in Turkey.

News Source: 12punto