WPF stands firmly against the recent detentions of journalists and press workers in Izmir, Turkiye, highlighting a continuing and concerning trend of press suppression under the guise of anti-terrorism efforts.

It is a dark day for press freedom in Turkey. Today, four journalists appeared in court in four separate cases against them on terrorism charges. Each journalists’ trial -except Melike Aydın- was postponed yet again. Expert reports, testimonies of witnesses were given as an excuse to adjourn the hearings again. The Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ) is aware that the constant postponement of trials is a new method managed to intimidate journalists. We strongly condemn the Turkish legal system and demand an immediate acquittal of journalists who allow the truth to be revealed. We reiterate that “Journalism is not a crime”.

The third hearing of the trial against Jin news reporter Melike Aydın was held in Izmir today. Melike faces charges of "being a member of a terrorist organization". The prosecutor requested from the court that the evidence against Melike must be investigated and the secret witnesses heard. The court postponed the next hearing to June 8, 2021. The Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ) reiterates that journalism is not a crime. We demand Melike and all other journalists, who are on trial, must be acquitted immediately.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism welcomes the release of Jin News reporter Melike Aydın, who was jailed pending trial since November 2019.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is appalled that Jinnews reporter Melike Aydın and Mesopotamia Agency reporter Ruken Demir being taken into custody, after their homes in Izmir were raided by Turkish authorities.