November 12, 2024 - Turkiye, Ankara

After questioning Nationalist Movement Party leader Devlet Bahçeli on potential disagreements with President Erdoğan, journalist Hilal Köylü faced public scolding and was told to "quit her profession."

Women Press Freedom condemns the politician's behavior toward this respected reporter, reminding Bahçeli that journalists’ duty is to ask tough questions, even if uncomfortable.

Intimidation in Türkiye’s political sphere is growing— the press must be free to hold leaders accountable without fear of reprisal, discredit, or insult. We demand a public apology and an end to efforts to undermine critical journalists.