AZİZ ORUÇ
Açık Radyo’s terrestrial broadcast was shut down by Turkey’s Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) on October 16, 2024, following a controversy over a program that referred to the 1915 Armenian events as "genocide." Despite the halt in FM broadcasting, Açık Radyo’s Director Ömer Madra declared the station’s determination to continue, stating, “Açık Radyo cannot be silenced. It is the voice of the public sphere.”
Açık Radyo, an independent station that has operated for nearly 29 years, saw its terrestrial broadcast license revoked after RTÜK imposed a penalty for not enforcing a previous program suspension. The suspension stemmed from a discussion on Açık Gazete where a guest referred to the 1915 events as a "genocide." The station, however, did not receive proper notification of the specific dates for the suspension, leading to RTÜK's decision to revoke its broadcasting license.
A history of censorship and resistance
Madra, reflecting on the station's history, mentioned past censorship battles, including a suspension in 2000 for a program accused of violating "family values" and "public morality." The station, known for its support of freedom of expression and diverse programming, has faced numerous challenges from Turkish authorities over the years.
Madra commented on the current situation, comparing it to the previous battles:
“This is reminiscent of when we were suspended for 15 days in 2000 under absurd claims. Now, we are facing a similar absurdity, but we remain hopeful that the decision will be overturned.”
Fighting back against censorship
Açık Radyo has filed legal appeals against the RTÜK decision and is exploring alternatives to continue broadcasting online. Madra expressed optimism, stating that despite the suspension, the station would continue its mission:
“We are confident that Açık Radyo will remain open. It cannot be silenced—it is the voice of the public. We have always defended freedom of speech and media for almost three decades, and we will continue to do so.”
The decision to revoke the station’s license has sparked widespread criticism from press freedom organizations, both domestically and internationally. Media outlets, including the International Press Institute, condemned the decision, labeling it a direct attack on media freedom.
A public outcry for Açık Radyo
The decision to revoke Açık Radyo’s terrestrial license is seen by many as an attempt to silence independent voices in Turkey. Madra emphasized the importance of public solidarity:
“The license revocation is an attempt to cut off the public’s voice. We’ve received overwhelming support from media organizations, and this shows that the fight for Açık Radyo is also a fight for free speech.”
Madra encouraged listeners and supporters to rally behind the station, calling for widespread public action to ensure the station’s survival:
“This is not just about Açık Radyo. It is about ensuring that public spaces—whether they are parks or radio stations—remain open to all. We need a collective effort. Everyone must raise their voice and say, ‘Keep Açık Radyo open.’”
Despite the legal and regulatory challenges, Açık Radyo remains committed to its mission of independent journalism, community engagement, and fostering a public dialogue that reflects diverse perspectives in Turkey and beyond.
