OSCE Media Freedom Representative concerned about blocking of Turkish-Cypriot Diyalog TV channel

VIENNA, 4 May 2020 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir today expressed his concern after the Turkish-Cypriot channel Diyalog TV was prevented from broadcasting. This is the result of a decision of the Turkey Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK).

“I am very concerned by the decision to stop the broadcasting of the Turkish-Cypriot Diyalog TV channel. Such a decision negatively impacts the free flow of information and access to a plurality of views and opinions,” said Désir. “I am also concerned that such decisions intimidate media and journalists, and can lead to increased self-censorship,” continued Désir.

RTÜK’s ruling reportedly came after a guest on the “World View” programme of Diyalog TV criticized the economic policy of the President of the Republic of Turkey.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom,  Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.