🚫 Broadcast bans and millions in fines: Mounting pressure on critical media in Turkey
Between July 9-19, SZC TV was off the air due to a 10-day blackout from Turkey’s broadcast regulator RTÜK. Just weeks earlier, Halk TV faced a similar sanction, which was delayed by court order, but the threat of a 10-day broadcast ban still prevails.
⚠️ The stated reason for the sanctions is “inciting hatred and hostility,” and any repeat offense within a year risks permanent license revocation.
In the first half of 2025 alone, RTÜK has issued 46 sanctions, 42 of which targeted independent or critical broadcasters, with fines totaling over 80 million TL.
📢 Since the revocation of Açık Radyo’s terrestrial broadcast license, the sanctions have reached an alarming level. Using vague laws, RTÜK’s escalating penalties suppress critical journalism and stifle public debate.
IPI stands with media outlets working under pressure and will continue to monitor and report on these developments.
Illustrations: Aslı Alpar
