Turkey Investigates at Least 70 Journalists Under Controversial “Disinformation” Law

Turkish authorities have investigated dozens of journalists under the country’s controversial “disinformation” law, sparking renewed concerns about press freedom in the nation.

At least 70 journalists have faced investigations since the law was enacted in 2022, according to a report by the Stockholm Center for Freedom, which cited local media sources. The crackdown has resulted in 15 journalists being detained, four arrested, and 27 formally charged.

The opposition-leaning newspaper BirGün detailed that four journalists are currently being held in custody awaiting trial. Among the most recent cases is BirGün’s own reporter, İsmail Arı, who was detained on Saturday and subsequently placed in pre-trial detention on Sunday over publications allegedly containing false information.

The law, passed in October 2022, introduced Article 217/A into Turkey’s Penal Code, creating a new criminal offense for the “public dissemination of misleading information.” Journalists and individuals found guilty under this provision face prison sentences ranging from one to three years, with potential for increased penalties under certain circumstances.

Press freedom advocates and opposition figures have consistently criticized the legislation, arguing that its broad language allows authorities to classify legitimate reporting as disinformation when it contains viewpoints critical of the government. The vague wording of the law, they contend, grants prosecutors extensive discretionary powers in determining what constitutes “misleading information.”

“This law isn’t about preventing misinformation—it’s about silencing critical voices,” said a representative from a local press freedom organization who requested anonymity due to safety concerns. “Journalism itself is being criminalized when it doesn’t align with the government narrative.”

Government officials and their allies have rejected these accusations. Feti Yıldız, a prominent figure in the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), which supported the legislation alongside President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), defended the law in February. Yıldız insisted that the measure is not intended to target journalists or legitimate reporting, but rather to combat the spread of harmful false information.

Several high-profile cases have drawn international attention to the application of the law. Tolga Şardan was detained in 2023 following his reporting on alleged corruption within Turkey’s judiciary system. Journalist Sinan Aygül has already been convicted under the disinformation law, while Alican Uludağ was reportedly detained in 2026.

Turkey’s relationship with press freedom has long been strained. The country currently ranks 159th out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, reflecting a consistently troubling environment for journalists.

Media experts note that the disinformation law represents just one facet of a broader pattern of press restrictions in Turkey. The country has witnessed the closure of numerous independent media outlets following the failed coup attempt in 2016, with many journalists facing terrorism-related charges based on their reporting.

International press organizations have called on Turkish authorities to reform the disinformation law and release journalists detained under its provisions. The European Federation of Journalists has characterized the legislation as incompatible with democratic standards and Turkey’s aspirations regarding human rights improvements.

As more cases emerge, legal experts are closely monitoring how Turkish courts interpret and apply the law, which could set precedents for future prosecutions. Meanwhile, journalists in the country continue their work under increasing pressure and the looming threat of criminal charges for their reporting.