A bill proposing the issuance of special-stamped passports to journalists has been submitted to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. If the proposal is enacted, journalists who have actively practiced their profession for at least 15 years will be able to benefit from the right to a green passport, regardless of whether they hold a press card.
The regulation was prepared citing the needs of journalists for international news coverage, access to news sources, and the ability to travel abroad on short notice when necessary. The text of the proposal emphasizes that difficulties encountered in visa processes make professional activities particularly challenging for local press members and freelance journalists.
The justification for the bill states that freedom of the press and the public's right to receive information are among the fundamental elements of a democratic social order. Referring to Articles 26 and 28 of the Constitution, the justification expresses that the ability of journalists to carry out their professional activities freely is important for the effective exercise of these rights.
Under current legislation, the right to a special-stamped passport is defined for certain public officials and professional groups. In addition to civil servants and public officials, members of the TBMM and the government, mayors, national athletes, employees of certain public institutions and banks, exporting business people and company officials, and lawyers are among the groups that can benefit from this right.
The proposal was submitted to the Speaker of the TBMM by Member of Parliament Mahmut Tanal on October 21. Following an initial review, the regulation was referred to the Interior Affairs Commission on the same day and is expected to be brought to the General Assembly agenda after discussions in the commission.
News Source: 12punto
