The Independent Communication Network (BIA) launched its April-May-June 2021 Media Monitoring Report. According to the report, at least 222 journalists continued to be prosecuted based on 19 different charges, especially “illegal organisation membership” and “making illegal organisation propaganda”, in 68 cases. One journalist was imprisoned after the 5-month imprisonment sentence against them was approved due to “violating the privacy of investigation.” One journalist was sentenced to 1 year, 10 months and 15 days of imprisonment due to “making terrorist organisation propaganda.” Two new investigations were opened against two journalists, one due to “targeting those taking part in the fight against terrorism” and the other due to “illegally obtaining and spreading personal data.” 18 journalists were prosecuted in the same period due to “insulting the President.” Of those prosecuted, Hakkı Boltan was sentenced to 2 years and 17 days of imprisonment due to insulting President Erdoğan and former Prime Minister Davutoğlu. Nine journalists were attacked. Access bans were issued against at least 24 online news articles as well as many tweets of journalist Erk Acarer. Freedom of Expression Association’s website Disabled Web’s many tweets were censored as well, which were informing the public on access bans in this period.
Please click here for the full report.
13.07.2021
bianet.org