The Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA) was awarded first prize in the written news category at the Southeastern Journalists Association's (GGC) 38th "Journalists of the Year" competition.
The prize was given to MLSA’s Diyarbakır correspondent Deniz Tekin for his report titled, "Earthquake news labeled ‘misleading information’ proves true."
The awards ceremony took place at a hotel in Diyarbakır, attended by leaders of journalist organizations, local journalists, political party representatives, members of parliament, public institution officials, and civil society organization leaders. Among the attendees were also the co-mayors of Diyarbakır.
GGC chair highlights growing challenges for press freedom
GGC Chairman Felat Bozarslan opened the event, describing the organization as one of the most significant professional bodies in the region. He paid tribute to journalists killed in the line of duty globally, including those in conflict zones such as Palestine, Gaza, Syria, and Iraq, and expressed deep concern about the state of press freedom.
“Journalism is moving toward self-censorship,” Bozarslan stated. “Journalists now feel compelled to overthink every word they write. This poses one of the greatest threats to the future of free, impartial, and independent journalism.”
Deniz Tekin’s report earns top recognition
Following the speeches, awards were distributed to the winners. Deniz Tekin’s award-winning report focused on journalist Fırat Bulut, who was detained and faced charges for sharing news about a fire at a prison in Elbistan following the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquakes in southeastern Turkey. Despite initially being labeled as "misleading information," the report was later confirmed as accurate. Tekin’s first-place prize was presented by Sezgin Tanrıkulu, a member of parliament from the Republican People’s Party (CHP) representing Diyarbakır.
Tanrıkulu emphasizes solidarity with journalists
In his remarks, Sezgin Tanrıkulu underscored the difficulties faced by journalists in Turkey today. Referring to the recent suspension of Open Radio's terrestrial broadcasting license, Tanrıkulu said, “We know very well what it means to report news in these times. We are aware of the challenges you face in trying to make your work heard and to create public awareness. We will continue to stand in solidarity with journalists.”
Press freedom award goes to Open Radio
This year’s GGC Press Freedom Award was presented to Open Radio, which ceased operations after losing its terrestrial broadcasting license in a decision by the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK). Open Radio had been broadcasting for nearly 30 years.
The GGC Special Award was granted to Hülya Hökenek for her program "Enine Boyuna" on Habertürk TV.
Jury members and selection process
The winners were chosen by a jury comprising prominent journalists and media professionals, including Pınar Türenç, Saygı Öztürk, İsmail Saymaz, Fatih Portakal, and Cansu Çamlıbel, among others. The committee also included academics and seasoned media figures. The event reaffirmed GGC’s commitment to celebrating journalistic excellence amid mounting challenges to press freedom in Turkey.
