The Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA) and nine other press freedom and professional media organizations issued a joint statement today, condemning the proposed "foreign agent" bill that is set to be discussed in the Justice Commission of the Turkish Parliament (TBMM). The statement emphasizes that the bill contains vague and unpredictable provisions and was created to suppress criticism of the government. The organizations warn that the bill represents an open assault on press and expression freedoms.
The full statement is as follows:
The “foreign agent” legislation, which seeks to criminalize journalistic activities through legal uncertainties, is being reintroduced to Turkey’s Parliament by the ruling AKP government. Previously part of the 9th Judicial Reform Package in May, the bill was withdrawn after widespread backlash. However, it has resurfaced as part of a different omnibus bill. This law aims to suppress criticism of the government and push journalistic activities into a legally ambiguous space.
The introduction of the concept of “foreign agent” into the penal code poses a serious threat to press freedom. Terms such as “against internal and external political interests,” “foreign organization,” and “war activity” are alarmingly vague. This ambiguity gives the government broad discretion to pressure journalistic activities and label them as foreign influence.
The bill creates an environment where journalists could be stigmatized as "foreign agents" at any moment simply for doing their jobs. This uncertainty will further restrict freedom of expression in Turkey and severely violate the public’s right to access accurate information.
Press and freedom of expression are the cornerstones of democratic society. However, the proposed regulation seeks to undermine these foundations and impose widespread control over society. Journalism is not just a profession—it is a societal duty to ensure the public is informed. This law represents an open attack on the dignity and very existence of journalism.
As members of the Media Solidarity Group, we will continue to stand firm against these attacks and raise our voices against this new criminal offense. We will defend the public’s right to be informed and uphold the truth.
Together with all media organizations and civil society groups, we will resist this unlawful regulation and continue to inform the public. We are defenders of a free press and free expression, and we will maintain this struggle under all circumstances.
Signed:
- Press Council
- DİSK/Basın-İş
- Diplomatic Correspondents’ Association
- Contemporary Journalists Association (ÇGD)
- Journalists' Association
- Economy Reporters' Association
- Haber-Sen
- İzmir Journalists' Association
- Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA)
- Turkish Journalists' Union (TGS)
This bill, according to these organizations, aims to stifle dissent and further tighten the government's control over the media. They emphasize that press freedom is crucial for democracy and vow to continue fighting the legislation.
