European Business Media (EBM), representing leading business news organisations across Europe, is deeply concerned about the continuing restrictions on free and independent media in Turkey. A free press is a cornerstone of democracy, accountability, and economic development. Without it, trust in institutions and markets cannot thrive. Turkey has now dropped to 159th out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
We are particularly alarmed by the recent reports regarding Swedish journalist Joakim Medin, who today faces allegations of terrorism-related activity before the Istanbul 13th High Criminal Court (Ağır Ceza Mahkemesi). Journalism is not terrorism. Investigative reporting, including coverage of sensitive political and social issues, is a legitimate and essential part of public debate. Allegations of terrorism against journalists raise serious concerns about the misuse of legal frameworks to silence critical voices.
The indictment against Joakim Medin, a well-known foreign correspondent from Sweden, consists only of examples of his reporting in an established Swedish media outlet protected by the Swedish Freedom of Expression Act since 1766. The suspicions against Joakim Medin have been condemned by media organisations and newspapers around the world.
Our concern extends to both Turkish and international journalists working in Turkey, who must be able to perform their professional duties free from intimi-dation, prosecution, or harassment. We urge Turkish authorities to respect press freedom, ensure due process, and allow all journalists to operate without fear.
As representatives of Europe’s leading business media, we stress that transparency, accountability, and press freedom are not only democratic values but also prerequisites for a healthy economy and stable international relations.
This statement was adopted by the board of EBM during the EBM Annual Meeting in Istanbul in September 2025.