Court stays execution of Turkish police order preventing journalists from reporting

Turkey's Council of State has stayed the execution of a police edict that prevented journalists from reporting police responses to demonstrations or social events. The edict was slammed back in May since it was issued to hide police brutality.

Thursday November 11 2021 02:50 pm

Riot police stand guard in front of the Boğaziçi University during a student protest in this file photo.

Duvar English

Turkey's Council of State on Nov. 11 stayed the execution of a police edict that prevented journalists from filming or recording security forces on smartphones while they are on duty.

According to the court, the edict violates the freedom of the press and that rights can be limited only with legislation.

The court also found the edict against the constitution. The police's orders will no longer be applicable, but the final verdict will be issued at a later date.

The edict was slammed when it was issued in May due to its aim being to hide police brutality. Turkish police at the time instructed officers to prevent people from filming or recording security forces on smartphones while they are on duty.

Critics of the move had said the decision was unlawful and would make it more difficult to identify rights violations at demonstrations or other events where police were deployed.

The notice said personnel should not allow voice or video recording without permission "while executing their duties," because it violated personal privacy and could involve unlawfully sharing personal data.

It said action could be taken against people who record or film police.

"These violations that reach a level that prevents the execution of duty, are published from time to time on digital platforms in a way that damages the personal rights and security of our personnel or citizens," the notice said.