Attacks against media outlets in Turkey unacceptable, says OSCE representative

According to media reports, in the early hours of 11 February, assailants opened fire and launched explosive devices at the buildings of the Yeni Akit and Yeni Safak newspapers in Istanbul. The building of the Akit Media Group in Istanbul was also attacked. 

“Attacks against media outlets are unacceptable, as they can further undermine the significantly weakened situation for freedom of expression and media freedom in Turkey,” Mijatovic said.

The Representative urged Turkish authorities to swiftly bring to justice the perpetrators of these attacks, as well as those responsible for the two attacks against the headquarters of the daily newspaper Hurriyet in September 2015.

“Whether we agree or disagree with the editorial policies of any newspaper, violence can never be the response,” she said.

The Representative said she follows with concern the numerous recent challenges to media freedom and freedom of expression in the Turkey.

“The authorities must increase their efforts to guarantee safe and free working conditions for journalists,” Mijatovic said.