TURKISH GOVERNMENT – REPORTS ABOUT VIOLATIONS AGAINST FREEDOM OF PRESS
Government Criticized for Targeting Freedom of the Press: Recent reports have criticized the government for seriously jeopardizing freedoms of the press, assembly and expression. Mahir Zeynalov reported that the government has silenced outspoken journalists. Three journalists were recently given life sentences on charges of “trying to overthrow constitutional order by means of violence” and holding high ranking positions in the outlawed Communist Party (MLKP). Nazil Muiznieks voiced concerns that the lack of media freedom may have “chilling effects” on freedom of assembly and expression. The European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee drafted a report welcoming Turkey’s recently announced democratization package, but criticizing Turkey’s restrictions on press freedom.