Story perspectives

Turkish Journalist Jailed for Criticizing President's Policies

2/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Alican Uludag, a Turkish journalist, was jailed on charges of 'insulting the president' after police arrested him with 30 officers in Ankara.
The Istanbul court's decision followed an investigation into 22 posts criticizing the government's release of Islamic State members.
Advocacy groups, including Reporters Without Borders, condemned the arrest as judicial harassment.
European Parliament's Turkey rapporteur and 12 Turkish journalists' unions echoed concerns about repression of press freedom in Turkey.

History

Historical Context

Since the failed coup attempt in July 2016, Turkey has seen a severe crackdown on press freedom, with over 231 journalists arrested, making it the world's leading jailer of journalists. Prominent figures like Can Dündar, editor of Cumhuriyet, faced imprisonment for exposing state secrets. Advocacy groups continue to demand reforms to protect journalists and uphold democratic values amid ongoing repression.

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Story summary

Alican Uludag, a Turkish journalist, was jailed on charges of 'insulting the president' after police arrested him with 30 officers in Ankara.
The Istanbul court's decision followed an investigation into 22 posts criticizing the government's release of Islamic State members.
Advocacy groups, including Reporters Without Borders, condemned the arrest as judicial harassment.
European Parliament's Turkey rapporteur and 12 Turkish journalists' unions echoed concerns about repression of press freedom in Turkey.

1 / 2