GP Approves Circular 'On the Investigation of Cases Pertaining to the Safety of Journalists and Media'

Today, the General Prosecutor, Olsian Çela, approved the Circular “On the Investigation of Cases Pertaining to the Safety of Journalists and the Media." 

Recognizing media freedom to be vital for the well-functioning of a democratic society, and  ensuring the safety of journalists and the media from any illegal actions is fundamental to safeguarding the constitutional and conventional right to freedom of expression, the General Prosecutor’s Office is committed to prioritizing the investigation of attacks on journalists and media.

This circular seeks to enhance coordination and strengthen institutional capacities to protect journalists from any threats, violence, or illegal actions aimed at hindering their professional work.

According to this directive, prosecutors and heads of prosecutions' offices are required to prioritize cases pertaining to the safety of journalists and the media. They must also provide ongoing oversight of the judicial police officers investigating these cases to ensure both the promptness and quality of the investigations.