Turkish High Court Upholds Controversial Media Law, Rejecting Opposition's Annulment Request

Law prescribing up to three years' imprisonment for spreading "disinformation" poses increasing threats to media and free speech, as already, about 30 people have faced prosecution since its enactment a year ago.

Turkish highest court rejected the main opposition party's plea for the annulment of a law that mandates imprisonment for individuals spreading 'disinformation.' The law has raised concern over the state of media freedoms and free speech.
The controversial law approved a year ago prescribes up to three years in prison for journalists or social media users who spread information deemed 'contrary to the truth' relating to national and international security, public order, or health.
Around 30 people, including journalists and social media users, have been prosecuted under the law since its enactment a year ago. This includes investigative journalist Tolga Sardan, who was arrested over his report on judicial corruption allegations.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his ruling party, along with nationalist allies, pushed for the law to combat what they view as 'disinformation' and 'digital fascism.' Critics argue that the legislation has been used to silence government opposition and independent media outlets.
Turkey's freedom of expression and media freedoms have seen a significant decline, with 19 journalists or media sector workers currently in prison. The country is ranked 165th out of 180 countries in press freedoms by Reporters Without Borders.