02.06.2025 17:23
The Kayseri Journalists Association and the TSYD Kayseri Branch issued a joint statement against the increasing threats and pressures on journalists in recent times. The statement emphasized that attempts to silence journalists are unacceptable and highlighted that freedom of the press and expression is guaranteed by the Constitution.
The Kayseri Journalists Association (KGC) and the Turkish Sports Writers Association (TSYD) Kayseri Branch issued a written statement regarding the threats and attempts to silence journalists performing public duties in recent times.
The joint written statement made by KGC and TSYD Kayseri Branch included the following expressions: "We are following with great sadness and concern the increasing threats and attempts to silence our journalist colleagues who are performing public duties in Kayseri. The latest example of this situation has once again been brought to light by the various pressures faced by two of our colleagues who are carrying out their journalistic duties in a television program due to their comments and evaluations. These developments have begun to take on a disturbing as well as saddening nature. The press is a profession that is under constitutional protection and is one of the indispensable elements of democracies. Freedom of expression is among the most fundamental rights and freedoms. The freedom of expression and press, guaranteed under Articles 26 and 28 of the Constitution, is not only a privilege granted to journalists but also forms the basis of the public's right to access accurate and impartial information."
"THE CRITICISMS MADE..."
The statement from the association continued as follows: "In this context, it is unacceptable for the criticisms made to be attempted to be suppressed through threats and pressure. It should not be forgotten that journalists, through their news and comments to date, have made significant contributions regarding the very circles that are trying to silence them today, allowing them to be recognized in the public eye and express themselves. In this context, the criticisms made should be met with maturity; if there is any incorrect or faulty information, it should be resolved through dialogue. The right to ask questions, make comments, and criticize, which is inherent in the profession of journalism, is among the ordinary and necessary activities in democratic societies. In this context, we would like to emphasize that the threats faced by members of the press can in no way be legitimized."