AEJ-Bulgaria https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/ Association of European Journalists-Bulgaria Mon, 22 Dec 2025 13:51:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://aej-bulgaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-AEJ-logo_2-32x32.png AEJ-Bulgaria https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/ 32 32 Top Bulgarian TV Anchor Taken Off Air Amid Fears of Political Interference https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/top-bulgarian-tv-anchor-taken-off-air-amid-fears-of-political-interference/ Mon, 22 Dec 2025 13:48:22 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=43774 Maria Tsantsarova, a prominent television journalist, has been taken off air from the political talk show This Morning on bTV, one of Bulgaria’s leading television channels, following weeks of speculation. Tsantsarova, known for her tough questioning and high-profile investigations, confirmed on Monday in a Facebook post that she had been removed from the programme, contradicting […]]]>

Maria Tsantsarova, a prominent television journalist, has been taken off air from the political talk show This Morning on bTV, one of Bulgaria’s leading television channels, following weeks of speculation.

Tsantsarova, known for her tough questioning and high-profile investigations, confirmed on Monday in a Facebook post that she had been removed from the programme, contradicting a vague official statement issued by bTV on Friday. Тhe broadcaster denied any allegations regarding the removal of Tsantsarova and her colleague Yochev, describing them as false. The media company—part of the Czech-owned investment group PPF—said it was in “active talks about the development of programme content for the coming year,” allegedly “with active participation” of the journalist.

However, on Monday This Morning aired with a replacement host and the company published a more detailed statement, where it claimed that Tsantsarova has repeatedly violated a number of editorial policies and principles, but despite this, she has been offered another programme in the prime time of the television. 

“The media will not succumb to external pressure and a process has been initiated to terminate relations with it her [Tsantsarova]”, it said. 

News of Tsantsarova’s removal triggered a protest on Friday organised by AEJ-Bulgaria and supported by numerous prominent journalists and citizens, who gathered in front of bTV’s headquarters in an act of solidarity. The wave of solidarity continued on Monday with hundreds of publications on social media. One of bTV’s top investigative reporters, Stoyan Georgiev, announced his resignation from the media company and declared his full support for Maria Tsantsarova. 

Over the past several years, Tsantsarova has been the target of repeated attacks by political figures. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was also pressured by law enforcement authorities to reveal her sources for a major investigative report.

Her removal comes at a time of unprecedented civil protests that led to the government’s collapse on December 11. Bulgaria has since entered a new phase of political instability and is heading toward early parliamentary elections in the coming months. Taking a leading critical journalist off air amid widespread social unrest has raised serious concerns about possible political interference.

Over the past decade, several prominent critical voices have been removed from their positions at both private and public television broadcasters in Bulgaria.

Opaque media ownership and political influence remain among the most serious challenges facing the country’s media environment. Bulgaria fell to 70th place from 59th in this year’s Reporters Without Borders (RSF) World Press Freedom Index.

AEJ-Bulgaria’s latest press freedom survey, published in 2024, reported a record increase in political pressure on journalists. A staggering 77 percent of respondents identified political interference as the most widespread source of pressure in Bulgarian media.

]]> New Project to Tackle Online Hate Speech Against LGBTI+ People in Bulgaria https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/massive-public-support-for-journalists-convicted-in-landmark-slapp-case-in-bulgaria-2/ Thu, 24 Jul 2025 12:00:05 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=43108 A new two-year project has been launched with the aim of countering hostility and disinformation against LGBTI+ people in the online space. The project, titled RESPONSES, is funded by the European Union under the CERV-2024-CHAR-LITI programme and will be implemented from June 2025 to May 2027. The lead organization is GLAS Foundation, working in partnership […]]]>

A new two-year project has been launched with the aim of countering hostility and disinformation against LGBTI+ people in the online space. The project, titled RESPONSES, is funded by the European Union under the CERV-2024-CHAR-LITI programme and will be implemented from June 2025 to May 2027.

The lead organization is GLAS Foundation, working in partnership with the Bilitis Resource Center Foundation, the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria (AEJ-Bulgaria), and the Bulgarian Society for Psychoanalysis and Group Analytic Psychotherapy (BSPGAP).

With the growing number of online hate speech incidents and manipulative narratives targeting the LGBTI+ community, RESPONSES will combine journalistic, research, and psychosocial approaches to protect the rights and dignity of those affected.

What’s next?

The project will focus on six key areas:

  • Research and analysis of hate narratives, disinformation trends, and perceptions within the community;

  • A national awareness campaign aimed at engaging the broader public on the issue;

  • A digital guide titled “Surfing Through Hate”, offering practical tools for recognizing and responding to online hostility;

  • Investigative and fact-check journalism exposing key cases of disinformation and hate speech;

  • Specialized training for journalists and editors on ethical and inclusive reporting;

  • Resilience and mental health programs, including workshops and individual support for community members.

Opportunities for Journalists

RESPONSES offers concrete opportunities for media professionals, including:

  • Training for 20 journalists who will specialize in covering issues related to hate speech and the LGBTI+ community;

  • Production of 4 investigative journalism pieces;

  • Fact-checking and analysis of at least 6 real-world cases of online hostility.

This approach will enable journalists to work with in-depth methodology, expert support, and tangible societal impact.

Impact in Numbers

  • Over 200,000 people will be reached through the awareness campaign;

  • 20,000 members of the LGBTI+ community will gain access to educational and supportive resources;

  • 70 individuals will receive personalized psychological support through the “Rainbow Counseling” program.

The project introduces a new model for inter-organizational collaboration in the fight against online hate — through the synergy of journalism, mental health, and activism.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or [name of the granting authority]. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

]]> Massive Public Support for Journalists Convicted in Landmark SLAPP Case in Bulgaria https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/massive-public-support-for-journalists-convicted-in-landmark-slapp-case-in-bulgaria/ Wed, 23 Jul 2025 12:33:42 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=43118 Bulgarian citizens have shown overwhelming solidarity with journalist Boris Mitov and independent news outlet Mediapool.bg following a controversial defamation ruling by the Supreme Court of Cassation. The decision, widely seen by press freedom advocates as a textbook example of a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), has sparked national and international concern. On Monday, the court […]]]>

Bulgarian citizens have shown overwhelming solidarity with journalist Boris Mitov and independent news outlet Mediapool.bg following a controversial defamation ruling by the Supreme Court of Cassation. The decision, widely seen by press freedom advocates as a textbook example of a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), has sparked national and international concern.

On Monday, the court upheld almost all claims brought by Svetlin Mihailov—former chairman of the Sofia City Court and current appellate judge—regarding a series of  articles published in 2018. The court not only reversed the findings of the appellate court but increased the awarded damages fivefold. Mitov and Mediapool were ordered to pay a total of BGN 36,000 (approximately EUR 18,000) in compensation and interest, plus an additional BGN 7,200 (EUR 3,600) in legal fees.

In an extraordinary show of public support, the full amount was raised in under 24 hours through joint fundraising efforts led by Mediapool and the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria (AEJ-Bulgaria).

“AEJ wants to thank you for supporting free and critical journalism in our country. It would mean nothing without an enlightened and engaged audience. You have proven that such an audience exists in Bulgaria,” AEJ said in a public statement.

A Threat to Press Freedom

The ruling sets a troubling precedent for press freedom in Bulgaria. The five-year legal battle is viewed as a clear case of a SLAPP—aimed not at justice, but at silencing journalists and discouraging public scrutiny of those in power. Such decisions risk creating a chilling effect across the industry, particularly when reporting on judicial integrity, political connections, or ethical concerns.

AEJ-Bulgaria has urged the Ministry of Justice to act swiftly and introduce legislation transposing the EU Anti-SLAPP Directive adopted in 2024, which mandates member states to protect journalists and civil society actors from abusive litigation.

Ignoring European Standards

In its final ruling, the Supreme Court dismissed the appellate court’s view that the contested publications presented factual reporting and value-based commentary—both protected under freedom of expression. Instead, it labeled critical commentary and widely known facts about Judge Mihailov as defamatory and insulting.

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has long held that public figures must tolerate a greater degree of public scrutiny. Yet the Bulgarian Supreme Court made no reference to relevant ECHR case law, nor did it acknowledge the vital role of journalism in a democratic society.

The court also accepted claims that the articles caused Mihailov emotional distress, health deterioration, and family strain—without requiring conclusive evidence that the reporting was the direct cause.

We express our profound disappointment with the Supreme Court of Cassation’s decision, which raises serious concerns about judicial impartiality—particularly when the subject of the lawsuit is a sitting magistrate.

]]> New Horizons in Journalism: Global Voices Rally for Truth, Transparency, and Audience Connection https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/new-horizons-in-journalism-global-voices-rally-for-truth-transparency-and-audience-connection/ Thu, 22 May 2025 12:20:30 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=42841 At the fifth New Horizons in Journalism conference, international media leaders tackled urgent challenges facing journalism today — from the spread of disinformation and AI’s unchecked influence to the erosion of public trust and the collapse of traditional business models. The event took place in Sofia, Bulgaria in April 2025 and it was organized by […]]]>

At the fifth New Horizons in Journalism conference, international media leaders tackled urgent challenges facing journalism today — from the spread of disinformation and AI’s unchecked influence to the erosion of public trust and the collapse of traditional business models. The event took place in Sofia, Bulgaria in April 2025 and it was organized by the World Press Institute (WPI) and partners from the America for Bulgaria Foundation (ABF) and the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria (AEJ-Bulgaria).

“Who Tells the Story?” – Journalism in the Age of Influence, Disinformation, and AI

Panelists and keynote speakers called for a renewed focus on ethics, transparency, empathy, and audience connection, arguing that journalism must adapt not just technologically, but fundamentally, to remain a vital force in society.

The panel began unconventionally, with a poetic and metaphorical presentation by Graham Griffith, a veteran American audio producer. He challenged the audience to reimagine the role of journalists altogether: “What if we are not journalists, but gardeners—tending to public spaces where curiosity still lives? We don’t just report; we shape understanding, we nourish community.” He encouraged journalists to think like teachers, artists, meteorologists—even chefs—serving not just information but understanding. In an age of media distrust, he suggested transparency, not objectivity, should be journalism’s anchor: “There is no objectivity. But there can be objective processes. Like history books need footnotes, journalism needs transparency.” Griffith also warned that without action, disinformation—particularly Russian state propaganda—would continue to exploit platforms and fill every informational vacuum: “There is no news gap. The stream is constant. The question is: how do we stand out, and who do we serve?”

Zakhar Protsiuk, CEO of The Kyiv Independent, spoke from a literal war zone. For him, the stakes of storytelling were not abstract—they were existential. “News media are no longer gatekeepers. Everyone creates news now. Our strength is doing what others cannot—deep investigations, frontline reporting, context in chaos.”

He warned that staying only within echo chambers of “engaged readers” isn’t enough. If ethical journalism doesn’t reach the undecided or misled, propaganda wins: “Russia fills the gaps. If we don’t offer alternatives, we’ll be safe in our bubble—maybe even funded—but isolated, and irrelevant.”

Fauziyya Tukur, an investigative journalist with BBC Nigeria, offered a perspective from a continent both booming with content and vulnerable to misinformation. For her, the challenge is compression—telling the truth in TikTok’s attention span: “How do you debunk viral disinformation in 30 seconds? That’s what the audience wants. But can we really explain the truth that fast?”

She described how traditional media is adapting by hiring influencers—not always journalists—to reach digital audiences: “They’re hired because they have followers, not ethics. That’s the problem. Influence is not a substitute for training.”

Tukur also noted the waning trust in legacy institutions like the BBC in parts of Africa, despite their continued cultural relevance. “The BBC used to be sacred. It still reaches millions, especially through radio. But trust is no longer automatic.”

Kaius Niemi, former editor-in-chief of Helsingin Sanomat, reflected on the long view of journalism’s struggle for survival. For him, media’s biggest threat is not just tech, but societal disregard for facts: “We’re facing a crisis of expertise. Professors, journalists—no one is seen as a real expert anymore. That’s dangerous for democracy.”

Niemi called for investment, creativity, and media startups that blend ethics with innovation. He also warned that in countries where people consume news through aggregators rather than directly from newsrooms, trust in media plummets.

What Happens If We Truly Put Our Audience at the Centre?

Camilla Bath, journalism consultant,  delivered a powerful, thought-provoking keynote that redefined what journalism should mean in today’s saturated, digital world. Drawing from her personal experience launching a WhatsApp news service in South Africa, she emphasized the urgent need for journalism to reconnect with its audience—not through more content, but more meaningful content. “The problem isn’t that people don’t care about the news,” she said. “The problem is that we keep giving them something they don’t value—and then we blame them for tuning out.”

Bath argued that traditional news values—timeliness, conflict, prominence—often serve journalists more than they serve the public. Instead, she proposed a framework of three modern news values:

  1. Make it Make Sense – Provide clarity, surprise, and meaning.

  2. Make it Matter – Offer resonance, build community, and uphold accountability.

  3. Make it Useful – Explain the world, offer solutions, and provide momentum.

Bath’s concept of “news therapy” exemplified her call for a more human-centric approach. She advocated for initiatives like “slow news days” or AI-assisted “choose your own news journeys,” allowing audiences to engage with stories based on their emotional or informational needs: “What if our audiences aren’t broken? What if our model is what’s broken?” She concluded with a call to journalists to become trusted companions, not just trusted sources, in people’s lives. “We need to become a part of our audience’s worlds again… That’s how journalism becomes truly alive, useful, and human.”

The Future of Journalism

Moderated by Bridget Rawlinson, the panel tackled the immense challenges facing journalism—from economic threats to AI disruption—with a sharp focus on actionable solutions.

Courtney C. Radsch, Director of the Center for Journalism & Liberty,  delivered a blistering critique of AI’s unchecked influence on journalism. “Generative AI has been built on theft—on stealing our content, bypassing paywalls, and not paying for it.” She warned that unless urgent copyright reform and policy action are taken, “we have only a few years left in journalism.” Her proposed strategy included license, litigation, legislation—with emphasis on creating fair compensation systems for news content. “It’s great to talk about trust, but if you are working against monopolies that control the information ecosystem, then you’re not in control of your sustainability.”

Veronika Munk, Director of Innovation and New Markets, Denník N,  started by drawing from her bold experience leading the mass walkout from Hungary’s Index and launching another journalism project called Telex. Munk shared how deep public trust and transparency saved independent journalism. “We said to people: You knew us for 20 years. Now we need your help—and they gave €1 million in three weeks.”

She also discussed a wildly successful campaign at Denník N that gained 24,000 subscribers in two weeks by making ten civic promises, like distributing newspapers to elderly homes and giving free subscriptions to first-time voters. “Transparency and public service values are key. When people understand your mission, they show up.”

Peter Erdelyi, Founding Director of the Center for Sustainable Media, emphasized the rise of lean, sustainable media models made possible by new technology. “With tools like Ghost, Substack, and newsletters, small teams can launch impactful journalism within hours and monetize it.”He praised audience revenue models while warning against rushing paywalls, advocating for slow, iterative community building. “It’s not a sprint. It takes 12–24 months for an audience to understand and support what you’re doing.” He also demystified EU funding, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged in upcoming 2028 budget negotiations.

]]> Who Tells the Story? Journalism at a Crossroads https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/who-tells-the-story-journalism-at-a-crossroads/ Thu, 22 May 2025 12:01:04 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=42833 Highlights from the Fifth Annual New Horizons in Journalism Conference in Sofia In an era of rising disinformation, political pressure, and artificial intelligence, the fifth annual New Horizons in Journalism conference, held in Sofia, Bulgaria, emerged as a global call to action. The central question—“Who tells the story?”—echoed throughout the event, bringing together journalists, media […]]]>

Highlights from the Fifth Annual New Horizons in Journalism Conference in Sofia

In an era of rising disinformation, political pressure, and artificial intelligence, the fifth annual New Horizons in Journalism conference, held in Sofia, Bulgaria, emerged as a global call to action. The central question—“Who tells the story?”—echoed throughout the event, bringing together journalists, media leaders, and advocates committed to protecting the integrity of the profession.

A Celebration of Resilience and Storytelling

The conference opened with energy and gratitude as Zach Mullinax, Executive Director of the World Press Institute (WPI), welcomed participants. “We’re so excited to kick off our fifth annual New Horizons in Journalism conference here in Sofia,” he said, acknowledging the presence of WPI alumni and partners from the America for Bulgaria Foundation (ABF) and the Association of European Journalists (AEJ).

Desislava Taliokova of ABF addressed the heart of the event’s theme: “Who tells the story? This, in many ways, is the question of all questions in journalism today.”She highlighted the dual promise and peril of artificial intelligence, cautioning that while AI may enhance efficiency, it risks displacing the very human essence of journalism. “It is the professionalism, the passion and the integrity of journalists—of people like you—that truly makes the difference,” she affirmed.

Maria Cheresheva, president of AEJ-Bulgaria,  recounted being asked to speak on resilience to American journalists. “In most of my professional career, things have been happening the other way around. I would learn from people who work in free and thriving media environments.” Now the political winds  have changed and colleagues around the world need to support each other even more actively than before. Cheresheva spoke about the daily challenges faced by journalists: political pressure, economic capture, harassment, and legal intimidation. Despite these hardships, she said: “Many are still standing. And insisting on protecting our right to be the ones who tell the stories—the stories the ones in power don’t want to be heard.”

David McDonald, Chairman of WPI, reflected on the WPI fellowship’s profound impact through the years. “This will be the 60th year of our U.S. fellowship. Over 600 journalists from 100 countries have taken part,” he said and added that the experience is “not just about training—it’s experiential.”

Former WPI fellow Ralitsa Fitcheva echoed this, describing her journey that took place in 2024 through the United States as a transformative experience: “We were privileged to travel across a democratic United States, whose very existence as such is under threat right now.” For Fitcheva, the fellowship offered not just skills, but community: “We found more than just professional enrichment. We found a family.” She announced the name of the 2025 fellow from Bulgaria – Janan Dural, world news editor for the Bulgarian National Television (BNT).

Empathy as a Tool to Redefine the Role of Journalism

The conference culminated in a powerful keynote by Arwa Damon, award-winning former CNN senior correspondent and founder of the humanitarian nonprofit INARA. Drawing on 20 years in war zones, she spoke with profound emotional depth. Arwa Damon emphasized that a critical element lacking in journalism, policymaking and our collective approach to understanding the world is empathy, especially in its deeper, emotional sense. She argues that our failures stem from not appreciating emotional history—the trauma passed down through generations that shapes how individuals and societies perceive and react to the world.

Damon explains that trauma influences how DNA interacts internally, meaning no one is born as a blank slate. Our perspectives are molded by countless factors—including family, culture, and history—which affect how we process events and conflicts. “What we need to recognize as journalists is what are those factors that have already shaped our perspectives and how do we overcome the impact that they are having on us so we can be better journalists. We should be able to create better stories that can drive a deeper understanding of conflicts and of people. I believe that our biggest failure is our inability to truly understand each other and what motivates us.”

Her journey into journalism was driven by her desire to bridge understanding and combat manipulation. She stresses that “we are constantly being manipulated, all of us, every single day,” often through campaigns that dehumanize others—be it military dehumanization campaigns, propaganda, or disinformation.

A core concept she advocated is that empathy is essential for journalism because “without empathy, you cannot be open to other people’s emotional history or to their emotional journeys.” Damon underscores the importance of self-awareness for journalists: understanding our biases and emotional triggers to foster genuine storytelling. She called for journalists to include emotional histories in their reporting to better serve truth and humanity. She noted how emotional conditioning, especially when unresolved, creates mental walls that hinder empathy, and how “we need to penetrate that wall” to connect genuinely.

Damon emphasized that “news only has value in the context of humanity” and that the moral obligation of journalists extends beyond objectivity to fairness, education, and human connection. She criticized the myth of neutrality, stating, “the notion that we are neutral is a farce,” and instead advocated for “being fair,” which involves highlighting human pain and context without crossing into activism.

She explained that “truth has multiple sides,” and that understanding emotional and psychological factors—fear, trauma, manipulation—is vital for meaningful reporting. She illustrated this with examples ranging from the motivations of fighters in conflict zones to the devastating impacts of war driven by human stories and emotions. Damon reminded of the importance of language—being mindful of dehumanizing descriptors—and called on journalists to “evolve,” to move beyond traditional frameworks of objectivity, and to use empathy as a tool to redefine the role of journalism.

Crisis is a Moment of Choice

The conversation about journalism’s identity—its past and its possible futures—continued throughout the conference. Yoanna Elmy, one of Bulgaria’s rising journalistic voices, offered a stirring account of how the profession looks to those just starting out. “Journalism has become ground zero for the vocation crisis,” she said. With fewer young people entering the field and even more leaving for public relations or content creation careers, she urged older colleagues to engage with the next generation. 

She advocated for embracing change while maintaining core principles rooted in people-centered journalism. The rise of influencers and content creators as part of this evolution, but traditional journalists often look down on them. Elmy stressed that crisis is a moment of choice: “Every crisis is an opportunity,” emphasizing that journalism must adapt to new mediums like the internet, which always disrupts but also enriches the industry. She encouraged journalists to think innovatively—incorporating tools like OSINT (Open Source Intelligence), explainer journalism, infographics, and podcasting—while remaining grounded in ground-level stories that focus on genuine human experiences. “What seems new is just the forgotten old,” she said, reminding the audience that the core principles of journalism—listening, empathy, storytelling—must be preserved, even if the formats evolve.

Elmy shared her own confusion when she first entered the profession in 2017, amid political chaos and shifting roles. “Was I a reporter, activist, citizen journalist, or influencer?” she asked. The question was not rhetorical. It pointed to a wider crisis of identity in the digital age—an age where, as she put it, “young people don’t have any attention span,” and where long-form pieces compete with 15-second videos for meaning.

]]> It’s time for Bulgaria to stand up for free journalism https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/its-time-for-bulgaria-to-stand-up-for-free-journalism/ Fri, 02 May 2025 15:16:30 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=42758 Sofia, 2 May 2025  It is time Bulgaria joined the Council of Europe’s Journalists Matter campaign. It is time for the state to show that it respects and protects journalism as a pillar of democracy, not as a threat to power. This is the call of the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria on the […]]]>

Sofia, 2 May 2025 

It is time Bulgaria joined the Council of Europe’s Journalists Matter campaign. It is time for the state to show that it respects and protects journalism as a pillar of democracy, not as a threat to power. This is the call of the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, 3 May. World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly, established to remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined in Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 

What is the Journalists Matter campaign

“Journalists Matter” is a pan-European campaign of the Council of Europe which aims to:

  • Assist Member States in establishing and implementing effective national mechanisms to protect journalists; 
  • Raise awareness of the increasing threats faced by journalists; 
  • To facilitate cooperation between governments, journalists’ organisations and civil society; 
  • To implement Recommendation CM/Rec(2016)4 of the Committee of Ministers on the protection of journalism and the safety of journalists. 

Official campaign website: https://www.coe.int/en/web/freedom-expression/safety-of-journalists-campaign

Key documents and guides: https://www.coe.int/en/web/freedom-expression/background-documents

Bulgaria – among the last in the EU in media freedom

In 2025, Bulgaria ranks 70 out of 180 countries in the Reporters Without Borders Index, announced on Friday by the international organisation.

Bulgaria dropped 11 places from its 2024 ranking due to a significant deterioration in its political score, noted Pavol Szalay, regional coordinator of Reporters Without Borders. In the EU, it now ranks 25th out of 27 member states (23rd in 2024).

He pointed out the following problems identified by his organisation:

  • Public and private media are under political pressure and far-right and populist politicians are stepping up their attacks on critical journalists.
  • Lawsuit abuse remains a serious threat to independent and sustainable journalism. In 2024, then Interior Minister Kalin Stoyanov filed a SLAPP (lawsuit against public participation – ed.) against Bird.
  • A journalist covering the October elections was attacked. Two separate incidents involved threats to journalists by local officials.
  • Russian propaganda is widespread and the existence of Radio Free Europe in Bulgaria is threatened because of the Trump administration’s decision to cut off its global funding.
  • No significant legal or policy reforms have been undertaken to strengthen media freedom, journalistic independence and the protection of journalists. Bulgaria is not on track to implement the European Freedom of the Media Act.

 

The Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria notes that the media environment in the country continues to suffer from:

  • Systematic insults, disrespect and attacks by political figures against journalists or media who ask uncomfortable questions of government officials
  • SLAPP cases against investigative journalists
  • lack of effective mechanisms to control transparency of media ownership and regulation against media concentration
  • misuse of public funding/municipal and state funds/to control editorial policy
  • physical and online threats that often go unpunished 

Our neighbours are already acting

  • Romania – as early as last year, it started the creation of a “government-to-government campaign structure” that will also meet the requirements set out in the European Commission Recommendation 2021/1534 on the protection, safety and empowerment of journalists, and began meetings between non-profit media monitoring NGOs with state institutions: the Ministry of Interior (including the leadership of the gendarmerie and police), the Ministry of Justice, the Prosecutor General, the Higher Council of Mag
  • Croatia – introduces protocols to protect journalists at events and conducts anti-SLAPP trainings.
  • Ukraine – despite the war – introduces a national plan to protect journalists and establishes a coordinating committee.
  • Countries like Spain, Ireland, Portugal, Malta are already part of the campaign with active actions. 

➡️ List of initiatives in participating countries (updated regularly)

 

Why should Bulgaria get involved?

  • Because journalists are in danger: threats against them threaten the public’s right to be informed. 
  • Because we are part of Europe: our country has commitments under the European Convention on Human Rights. 
  • Because silence is complicity: refusal to act in support of journalists means tolerance of pressure and repression. 

Our appeal

We call on the Bulgarian state:

  • Join the Journalists Matter campaign immediately; 
  • Establish an interagency mechanism to protect journalists and defend against SLAPP cases; 
  • Ensure transparency in media ownership and access to public funds without political pressure; 
  • To state clearly: journalists are not enemies of the state, but defenders of democracy. 

We do not want privileges. We want security, freedom and dignity in our work. It is time for Bulgaria to stand by its journalists.

]]> Small Grants Program for Journalists https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/small-grants-program-for-journalists/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:37:40 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=42669 The Bulgaria International Journalism Fellowship (BIJF) offers small grants to independent journalists and storytellers who wish to explore Bulgaria’s role in a European and global context. The initiative is led by the American University in Bulgaria and is dedicated to shedding light on Bulgaria’s dynamic and evolving position in Europe and the world. As a […]]]>

The Bulgaria International Journalism Fellowship (BIJF) offers small grants to independent journalists and storytellers who wish to explore Bulgaria’s role in a European and global context.

The initiative is led by the American University in Bulgaria and is dedicated to shedding light on Bulgaria’s dynamic and evolving position in Europe and the world. As a member state of the European Union and NATO, Bulgaria occupies a strategic crossroads between East and West, between tradition and innovation. Despite this pivotal role, many of the country’s most compelling stories remain untold on the international stage.

The BIJF program aims to support Bulgarian journalists and storytellers in producing high-quality, independent, and fact-based journalism that reflects the complex picture of democratic processes, societal transformation, and cultural development in the country.

What types of projects does BIJF support?

  • Print journalism – articles, essays, investigative pieces, and in-depth analyses

  • Documentary and visual projects – films, photo essays, and multimedia storytelling

  • Audio journalism – podcasts and other audio formats

  • Interactive and data-driven formats – innovative digital narratives

Potential topics include geopolitical developments, economic transformations, cultural achievements, and human-interest stories that offer new perspectives on Bulgaria for international audiences.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with the deadline for the next round of funding set for April 15.
More information is available here.

]]> Europe Press Freedom Report 2024 warns about risks of war in Ukraine and persistent threats to media freedom across Europe https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/europe-press-freedom-report-2024-warns-about-risks-of-war-in-ukraine-and-persistent-threats-to-media-freedom-across-europe/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:21:53 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=42596 The risks that journalists faced covering the war of aggression of Russia against Ukraine remained the most pressing concern related to the safety of journalists in Europe in 2024, according to the annual report of the partner organisations to the Council of Europe’s Platform to promote the protection of journalism and safety of journalists. The […]]]>

The risks that journalists faced covering the war of aggression of Russia against Ukraine remained the most pressing concern related to the safety of journalists in Europe in 2024, according to the annual report of the partner organisations to the Council of Europe’s Platform to promote the protection of journalism and safety of journalists.

The report, entitled “Europe Press Freedom Report 2024: Confronting Political Pressure, Disinformation and the Erosion of Media Independence”, also identifies as serious threats the digital surveillance of journalists and its risks to source confidentiality, the transnational repression of journalists – notably, from Russia and Belarus -, and the trend towards media capture by governments in some countries. 

The report warns of the rising threat of disinformation, including AI-generated content and state propaganda, used to manipulate public opinion and undermine independent journalism. 

The platform partners address a set of recommendations urging the Council of Europe, the European Commission, and the 46 Council of Europe member states for stronger legal protection for journalists, safeguards against disinformation, and measures to combat media capture and surveillance. They call on governments and institutions to uphold press freedom through policy reforms, transparency, and stronger protections against threats and harassment.

In 2024, the platform partners published 266 alerts of physical attacks, intimidation, detention,impunity and other restrictive actions, slightly below the number of alerts in 2023 (285) but significantly above pre-COVID levels.

The countries with the highest number of alerts were Ukraine (40), most of them related to Russian-occupied territories or attributed to Russian forces, Russia (32), Türkiye (28), Serbia (20) and Georgia (18). Georgia experienced the sharpest rise in the alerts, more than threefoldcompared to the previous year- mainly due to attacks on journalists during pro-EU protests.

Seventy-eight alerts were related to attacks on journalists’ physical safety and integrity, compared to 52 in 2023, including the deaths of the Ukrainian journalist Viktoria Roshchyna, while in Russian custody, Reuters safety adviser Ryan Evans, and Kazakh journalist Aidos Sadykov. Except for acts of war brought on by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, most physical assaults on journalists were connected to their coverage of public demonstrations and elections.

As of 31 December 2024, 159 journalists were held in detention across Europe, including 44 in Belarus, 30 in Azerbaijan, 29 in Russia (in addition to 28 in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine), 27 in Türkiye, and 1 in Georgia. 

While abusive legal threats against media and journalists continued to raise concerns, the platform partners welcome the adoption of a Council of Europe recommendation on countering Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), the enactment of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) and the anti-SLAPP EU directive’s implementation and trust they will contribute to creating a more favourable environment for media freedom.

In April 2025, the Safety of Journalists Platform will mark its 10th anniversary. Since its launching in 2015 until 31 December 2024, the Platform registered some 2, 000 alerts.

The Platform’s annual report covers the 46 Council of Europe member states, as well as Russia, following its expulsion from the Council of Europe in 2022, and Belarus.

* * *

The Council of Europe’s Platform to promote the protection of journalism and safety of journalistswas set up by the Council of Europe in 2015, in co-operation with prominent international NGOs active in the field of the freedom of expression and associations of journalists, to provide information which may serve as a basis for dialogue with member states about possible protective or remedial action. 

The 15 partners are the European Federation of Journalists, the International Federation of Journalists, the Association of European Journalists, Article 19, Reporters without Borders, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Index on Censorship, the International Press Institute, the International News Safety Institute, Rory Peck Trust, the European Broadcasting Union, PEN International, the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom, Free Press Unlimited and the Justice for Journalists Foundation.

 

]]> Campaign Call: Free Mzia Today https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/campaign-call-free-mzia-today/ Thu, 27 Feb 2025 11:25:53 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=42579 AEJ-Bulgaria joins the many journalists, editorial offices, advocates of press freedom, human rights defenders, and journalistic organizations participating in the initiative of the International Press Institute, calling for the release of Mzia Amaglobeli. The undersigned journalists, newsrooms, press freedom advocates, human rights defenders, and journalists’ organizations, call upon the Georgian authorities to immediately release veteran […]]]>

AEJ-Bulgaria joins the many journalists, editorial offices, advocates of press freedom, human rights defenders, and journalistic organizations participating in the initiative of the International Press Institute, calling for the release of Mzia Amaglobeli.

The undersigned journalists, newsrooms, press freedom advocates, human rights defenders, and journalists’ organizations, call upon the Georgian authorities to immediately release veteran journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, who has been on hunger strike for five weeks since her arrest in early January.  

As of February 18, Mzia announced an end to the hunger strike after doctors warned that she faced an imminent threat to her life. 

On January 11, amid a government crackdown on pro-democracy protests, Mzia was arrested on  disproportionate charges of assaulting a police officer – a charge carrying up to seven years in prison – following an altercation with a police chief in Batumi. She has since been unjustly held in pre-trial detention where she decided to refuse food in protest against her mistreatment and against the wider crackdown in Georgia.

On February 4, Mzia was transferred to a hospital where doctors warned she would soon go into organ failure. The court hearing to review Mzia’s detention is  scheduled for March 4. 

Mzia faces a long rehabilitation to regain her health and must not be returned to prison. 

Mzia is the founder and director of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, two of Georgia’s most popular and respected online news portals covering corruption and abuse of power. Throughout her career, Mzia has shown exemplary courage and a steadfast commitment to defending democratic values, press freedom, and journalists’ rights.

Mzia’s arrest comes during a brutal suppression of the democracy protests and escalating attacks against independent journalists.

Mzia sent the following message from her prison cell:

“These processes have been unfolding over the past year and are embedding themselves into our daily lives as a dictatorship. Freedom is far more valuable than life, and it is at stake. Fight before it is too late […] I will not bow to this regime. I will not play by its rules.”

The Georgian authorities must release Mzia immediately, drop the disproportionate charges against her, and conduct an independent investigation into the allegations of mistreatment against her.

We stand by Mzia Amaglobeli, her colleagues at Batumelebi and Netgazeti, and all independent journalists of Georgia.

This statement was initiated by the International Press Institute (IPI), a global network of editors, media executives and leading journalists. You can sign the statement as an individual or as an organization.

You can add your signatures here.

Signed: 

Organizations:

Signed: 

Organizations:

  1. International Press Institute (IPI)
  2. Osservatorio Balcani Caucaso Transeuropa (OBCT)
  3. European Federation of Journalists (EFJ)
  4. European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF)
  5. Free Press Unlimited (FPU)
  6. Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ)
  7. International Federation for Human Rights
  8. Media Diversity Institute Global
  9. Society of Journalists (TD), Poland
  10. Justice for Journalists Foundation
  11. National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU), Ukraine
  12. Journalists Union of Serbia / SINOS, Serbia
  13. Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AGK), Kosovo
  14. Independent Trade Union of Journalists and Media Workers (SSNM), North Macedonia
  15. The Belarusian Association of Journalists (BAJ), Belarus
  16. Association of Journalists (GCD), Türkiye
  17. The  Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics
  18. Trade Union of Croatian Journalists (TUCJ), Croatia
  19. Center for Media, Information and Social Research (CMIS), Georgia
  20. Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (IJAS), Serbia
  21. Hungarian Press Union (HPU), Hungary
  22. Studio Monitor (Georgia)
  23. Association luxembourgeoise des journalistes professionnels (ALJP), Luxembourg
  24. Association of Polish Journalists (SDP), Poland
  25. Independent Association of Georgian Journalists (IAGJ), Georgia
  26. South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO)
  27. Transparency International Georgia (TIG)
  28. Granski sindikat kulture, umetnosti i medija ,,Nezavisnost“ (GS KUM  “Nezavisnost”), Serbia
  29. Maisi News (Georgia)
  30. TV PIRVELI – (GEORGIA)
  31. Agrupación de Periodistas FSC-CCOO, Spain
  32. Media Diversity Institute  (MDI)
  33. Reporters without Borders (Reporters sans frontières)
  34. Muwatin Media Network
  35. Media Ombudsman (Georgia)
  36. Institute for Reporters Freedom and Safety (IRFS)
  37. Media April (Georgia)
  38. Public Record (Romania)
  39. Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC)
  40. Caucasus Open Space (Georgia)
  41. Asociacja Human Constanta International
  42. IFEX
  43. PumaPodcast, Philippines
  44. Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS)
  45. The Fix Media
  46. Human Rights Center (HRC), Georgia
  47. Syndicat National des Journalistes (SNJ), France
  48. Journalists’ and Media Workers’ Union (JMWU), Russia
  49. Formula TV, Georgia
  50. Media Voice
  51. Rights Georgia
  52. Journalist’s Network for Gender Equality
  53. Global Bar Magazine, Sweden
  54. Civil.ge, Georgia
  55. Voxeurop.eu
  56. Association of European Journalists (AEJ), France
  57. Georgian Alliance of Regional Broadcasters
  58. Journalism Resource Center
  59. TOK TV
  60. Progressive Journalists Association (PJA), Türkiye
  61. Journalists’ Union of Athens Daily Newspapers (JUADN), Greece
  62. Association des Journalistes professionnels (AJP), Belgium
  63.  Georgiannews / Mtis Ambebi
  64. Swedish Union of Journalists (SJF), Sweden
  65. Icelandic Union of Journalists (BI), Iceland
  66. Norwegian Union of Journalists (NJ), Norway
  67. Media Diversity Institute Western Balkans
  68. Journalists About Journalism, (jaj.gr)
  69. Danish Union of Journalists (DJ), Denmark
  70. Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA), Türkiye
  71. Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN), Bosnia and Herzegovina
  72. Estonian Association of Journalists (EAL), Estonia
  73. Women in Media NGO, Ukraine
  74. European Journalism Training Association (EJTA), Belgium
  75. Index on Censorship
  76. Association of European Journalists (AEJ)
  77. Association of European Journalists (AEJ), Bulgaria
  78. MEDIA-CENTER UA, Ukraine
  79. I-VIN.INFO, Ukraine
  80. IMS (International Media Support), Denmark
  81. ARTICLE 19 Europe
  82. Fnsi – Federazione nazionale della Stampa italiana (Italy)
  83. The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS)
  84. Oštro, a center for investigative journalism in the Adriatic region, Slovenia
  85. www.timer.ge
  86. Independent Media Trade Union of Ukraine (IMTUU)
  87. On.ge
  88. Mediaforum Association, Hungary
  89. Georgian Institute of Public Affairs  (GIPA)
  90. Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ)
  91. Broadcasting Scotland
  92. Independent Media Trade Union of Ukraine (IMTUU)
  93. Media Independen Indonesia
  94. AEJ Austria (Association of European Journalists)
  95. AEJ Italia Association of European Journalists

 

Individuals:

  1. Scott Griffen, Executive Director, International Press Institute (IPI)
  2. Oliver Money-Kyrle, Head of European Advocacy, International Press Institute (IPI)
  3. Teona Sekhniashvili, Europe Network & Advocacy Officer, International Press Institute (IPI)
  4. Zeyneb Gültekin, Türkiye Programme Coordinator, International Press Institute (IPI)
  5. Damla Tarhan Durmuş, Türkiye FOI Project Coordinator, International Press Institute (IPI)
  6. Jamie Wiseman, Europe Advocacy Officer, nternational Press Institute (IPI)
  7. Ronja Koskinen, Press Freedom Officer, International Press Institute  (IPI)
  8. Eero Lassila, Helsingin Sanomat Foundation Fellow, International Press Institute (IPI)
  9. Dumitrita Holdis, Europe Programme Manager, International Press Institute (IPI)
  10. Karol Łuczka, Eastern Europe Advocacy Lead, International Press Institute (IPI)
  11. Dinara Satbayeva, Communications Officer, International Press Institute (IPI)
  12. Alina Cristea, Innovation Projects Officer, International Press Institute (IPI)
  13. Javier Luque, Head of Digital Media and Online Safety, International Press Institute (IPI)
  14. Grace Linczer, Membership and Engagement Manager, International Press Institute (IPI)
  15. Ryan Powell, Head of Innovation, International Press Institute (IPI)
  16. Gabriela Manuli, Director of Special Projects, International Press Institute (IPI)
  17. Timothy Large, Director of Independent Media Programmes, International Press Institute (IPI)
  18. Moreta Bobokhidze, Eurasia Program Officer, Civil Rights Defenders
  19. Irakli Vachiberadze, “info imereti”
  20. Anne Leppäjärvi, Degree Director, Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences
  21. Alina Toropova, Journalists-in-Residence Programme Manager, ECPMF
  22. Ena Bavčić, EU Advocacy Officer, ECPMF
  23. Elena Rodina, Coordinator, Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), ECPMF
  24. Patrick Peltz, Monitoring and Research Officer, ECPMF
  25. Andreas Lamm, Managing Director, ECPMF
  26. Gürkan Özturan, Monitoring Officer, ECPMF
  27. Luc Steinberg, Head of Operations, Media Diversity Institute Global
  28. Dejan Gligorijević, Journalists Union of Serbia / SINOS member of EFJ / IFJ
  29. Yusuf Kanlı, Vice-Chair, Association of Journalists, Türkiye
  30. Cristi Godinac, president Romanian Union of Journalists MediaSind
  31. Sari Taussi, Member of BREG/EFJ, Union of Journalists in Finland
  32. Renate Schroeder, Director, EFJ
  33. Ricardo Gutiérrez, EFJ General Secretary
  34. Maja Sever, EFJ president
  35. Renate Gensch, Member of FREG/EFJ, dju in ver.di, Germany
  36. Krzysztof Bobinski, board member, Society of Journalists (Warsaw)
  37. Lia Chakhunashvili, The Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics, Executive Director (Georgia)
  38. Maya Metskhvarishvili, Editor at the Studio Monitor, Georgia
  39. Ekaterine Basilaia, Director, Center for Media, Information and Social Research (CMIS)
  40. Khatia Lomidze, The  Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics, Editor at the Mediachecker, (Georgia)
  41. Boris Sajaia, Journalist at the Mediachecker, The  Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics, (Georgia)
  42. Ninia Kakabadze,  Mediachecker, The  Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics, (Georgia)
  43. Natalia Vakhtangashvili, Journalist, Media Project Coordinator at Transparency International Georgia
  44. Tinatin Zazadze, Editor et the “samkhretis karibche” sknews.ge (Georgia)
  45. Gulo Kokhodze, Samkhretis Karibche” sknews.ge ( Georgia)
  46. Vladimer Chkhitunidze, Journalist at Radio “Marneuli”, (Georgia)
  47. Tiko Davadze, Journalist at Radio “Marneuli”, (Georgia)
  48. Kamila Mamedova, Director, Radio “Marneuli” (Georgia)
  49. Nino Zuriashvili, Editor at the Studio Monitor, Georgia
  50. Roger Infalt, Secretary general of the luxembourgish Press Council, board member of the luxembourgish association of professional  journalists (Luxembourg)
  51. Mariusz Pilis, vice president of the Association of Polish Journalists (SDP)
  52. Jolanta Hajdasz, president of the Association of Polish Journalists (SDP)
  53. Irma Dimitradze, Journalist, Gazeti Batumelebi
  54. Die Morina van Uijtregt, Journalist, Netherlands/Kosovo
  55. Zviad Pochkhua, IAGJ President
  56. Janusz Wiertel, Society of Journalists (Warsaw)
  57. Dorota Nygren, Society of Journalists(Warsaw)
  58. Darko Šper,  Granski sindikat kulture, umetnosti i medija ,,Nezavisnost“ (The (Branch) Trade Union for Culture, Art and Media “Nezavisnost”), Serbia
  59. Kathy Kiely, Lee Hills Chair in Free Press Studies, Missouri School of Journalism
  60. Erol Önderoğlu, Press freedom advocate, Türkiye
  61. Edik Baghdasaryan, Editor in Chief, Hetq, Armenia
  62. Nana Biganishvili, Editor at the Studio Monitor, Georgia
  63. Maria Laura Franciosi, Ossigeno.info
  64. István Kulcsár
  65. Tomasz Milkowski, SDRP, Poland
  66. Rinat Tuhvatshin, Kloop, Kyrgyzstan
  67. Anna Kapushenko, Kloop, Kyrgyzstan
  68. Lika Zakashvili, Editor in chief at the Publika, Georgia
  69. Krzysztof Dowgird Society of Journalists (Warsaw)
  70. Małgorzata Bonikowska Society of Journalists (Warsaw) Canada
  71. Andrzej Zimowski Society of Journalists (Warsaw)
  72. Katarzyna Wyszomierska (Warsaw)
  73. Siromani Dhungana, Chairperson,  Democracy Media Network, Nepal
  74. Galina Sidorova, journalist, co-founder, Community of Investigative Journalists – Foundation 19/29, Russia-Czech Republik
  75. Natia Kapanadze – Media Lawyer, Human Rights Defender
  76. Alex Raufoglu, State Department Correspondent, Turan News Agency
  77. Wahid Bhat,  Environment editor, and Co-founder, Ground Report, India
  78. Jan Keulen, journalist
  79. Mamuka Andguladze, Chair of Media Advocacy Coalition (Georgia)
  80. Emilia Șercan, investigative journalist, Romania
  81. Olena Cherniavska, EU Advocacy, IRFS
  82. Annia Ciezadlo, Investigations Editor, The Public Source (Beirut, Lebanon)
  83. José Luis Benítez, journalist (El Salvador)
  84. Stavroula Poulimeni, journalist, Alterthess.gr, (Greece)
  85. Khatia Ghoghoberidze (Media April)
  86. Nina Shengelia, Policy Leader Fellow, European University Institute
  87. Lukas Diko, Editor-in-chief, Investigative center of Jan Kuciak, Slovakia
  88. Marius Dragomir, Director, Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC)
  89. Markus Drechsler, Editor, Menschen & Rechte, Austria
  90. Ehsan Ahmed Sehar, President Rural Media Network Pakistan
  91. Ijaz Ahmed Khan, Editor Daily Nawa-I-AhmedpurSharqia, Pakistan
  92. Nouneh Sarkissian, Managing Director, Media Initiatives Center, Armenia
  93. Carlos Dada, Editor in Chief, El Faro (Central America)
  94. Annette Rose, Journalist, dju in ver.di, Germany
  95. Mohamed Ibrahim, President Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS)
  96. Arzu Geybulla, journalist, freelance
  97. Petr Oralek, Czech News Agency (Czech Republic)
  98. Lika Antadze (Chai Khana Media)
  99. Ginko Kobayashi （Freelance for Japanese media）
  100. Ucha Nanuashvili (former Public Defender of Georgia)
  101. Salome Ugulava, journalist, Formula TV
  102. Lukas Burnar, Executive Director, Medienhaus andererseits, Austria
  103. Joanna Grotkowska (Society of Journalists) , Warsaw, Polish Radio
  104. Vladimer Mkervalishvili, Media and Communication Expert, Professor
  105. Teresa Di Mauro, journalist, freelance
  106. Mariam Gersamia, Chair of Media Voice
  107. Nata Koridze, Managing Editor, Civil.ge
  108. Gian-Paolo Accardo, executive editor, Voxeurop.eu
  109. Nino Baindurashvili, News Writer, Civil.ge
  110. Andreï Jvirblis, freelance journalist
  111. Sergey Burtsev, KubanNovosti
  112. Olga Proskurnina, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Republic.ru
  113. Ekaterina Biyak, Activatika
  114. Natia Kuprashvili – Head of PhD Mass Communication Program, TSU. Journalism Resource Center
  115. Nina Kheladze – TOK TV Director
  116. Konstantinos  Alexopoulos
  117. Laura Gogoladze, Editor in chief at the Chemi Kharagauli, Georgia
  118. Josh LaPorte, Media Diversity Institute Global
  119. Gela Mtivlishvili, editor, journalist, Georgiannews / Mtis Ambebi
  120. Noémi Martini, journalist at HVG (Hungary)
  121. Ekaterina Kotrikadze, TV Rain, News director and Anchor
  122. Tikhon Dzyadko, TV Rain, Editor-in-Chief
  123. Milica Pesic, Media Diversity Institute (MDI)
  124. Georgia Thanou
  125. Aristeidis Georgiou
  126. Argyro Giannoudaki (Greece)
  127. Thimios Kakos , Freelance Journalist
  128. Tatiana Capodistria, Greek retired journalist
  129. Alexander Chritina Kopsini, secretary general of Panhellenic Federation of Journalists Unions
  130. Marina Drakatou, journalist, Private Insurance Monthly, privateinsurance.gr
  131. Kostas Nikolakopoulos
  132. Şebnem Arsu, journalist, Türkiye
  133. Eleni Voultsidou, journalist, Greece
  134. Michalis Sifakis, journalist, Greece
  135. Fotis Raisis (Greece)
  136. Xanthidis Pantelis, Journalist, Athens, Greece
  137. Maria Nikolaidou, Journalist, Athens. Greece
  138. Christos Michalopoulos, Athens.Greece
  139. Chrysa Liangou, Journalist, Athens. Greece
  140. Hatzis Dimitris journalist athens Greece
  141.  Eleftheria Alavanou, journalist, Athens, Greece
  142.  Nicholas Tsimpidas – Journalist, Greece
  143. Helen Belli, Journalist, Athens, Greece
  144. Alexis Vakis, journalist, Athens, Greece
  145. Alexia Svolou Journalist athens Greece
  146. Andreas Ch. Panagopoulos, journalist, Athens, Greece
  147. Vasileios Tzimtsos, journalist, Greece
  148. Konstantin Vorovich, Journalist, Discours.io
  149. Espen Brynsrud, Head of Department, Oslo Norway
  150. Katerina Oikonomakou, journalist, Athens, Greece
  151. Nikos Sakellariou
  152. Teona Tskhomelidze, journalist, Executive Director of Media Voice
  153. Alexander Kapsylis journalist, Athens, Greece
  154. Angeliki Boubouka, journalist, Athens, Greece
  155. Espen Leirset, Editor-in-Chief, Norway
  156. Lazaros Kokosis, journalist, Athens, Greece
  157. Igoumenidi Teti journalist Athens Greece
  158. Katja Alexander, journalist
  159. Jenny Panteli,  journalist GREEK VOICE FLORIDA – ODYSSEY TV KANADA
  160. Andrei Kaganskikh, independent journalist
  161. Katerina Fikari, journalist, Greece
  162. Ilia Papaspyrou, journalist, Greece
  163. Ivana Jelača, Media Diversity Institute Western Balkans
  164. Nikos Kiaos, journalist Athens Greece
  165. Thanasis G. Kappos journalist & teacher at media studies, Athens, Greece
  166. Milka Tadic Mijovic, President, Centre for Investigative Journalism of Montenegro
  167. Christos Michaelides Journalist, Athens, Greece.
  168. Karali Athina Journalist, Athens, Greece.
  169. Nikos Theodorakis, Nick Theodorakis, Journalist, Athens, Greece
  170. Nikos A. Konstantopoulos, newspaper KATHIMERINI
  171. Georgia Mylonaki, journalist, Athens, Greece
  172. Theodwros Manikas, Athens, Greece
  173. Pannagiotis Votsis, journalist, Greece
  174. Sissy Alonistiotou, journalist, Greece
  175. Mirsini Grigori, Athens, Greece
  176. Tigkiris Michael, journalist, Greece
  177. Zoltán Sipos, editor-in-chief and manager of Átlátszó Erdély
  178. AndreRoth, German Journalist Federation DJV
  179. Milorad Ivanovic, editor in chief, BIRN Serbia#
  180. Nora Ralli, journalist, The Journalist Journal/2020mag.gr/ect
  181. Lina Stefanou, editor-in-chief of NOMAS magazine
  182. Erato Giannakoudi editor Athens
  183. Nikos Langadinos, journalist, Greece
  184. David Omarov, Invisible rainbow of Turkmenistan
  185. Yannis Alexiou, journalist, Greece
  186. Maria Syrrou, journalist / actress, Greece
  187. Argiro Morou, Journalist, Greece
  188. Kyriaki Fyntanidou, Greece
  189. Annita Triantafyllopoulou Journalist
  190. Natalie Sablowski, Journalist, Süddeutsche Zeitung, Germany
  191. Antonis Papavomvolakis, journalist, Greece
  192. Giolada Koubli journalist, Athens Greece
  193. Dimitris Papadimitriou, journalist, Greece
  194. Satik Seyranyan, president of the Union of Journalists of Armenia, editor-in-chief o” (168.am)
  195. Katerina Koutselaki, tovima.gr
  196. 195. Nontas Chaldoupis, businessdaily.gr
  197. 196- Bülent Mumay, journalist, Turkey
  198. Victor Korb, DO-info, news agency
  199. Bilio Tsoukala Journalist Greece
  200. Frederik Obermaier, Director of paper trail media, Germany
  201. Nina Komninou, Greece
  202. Dimitris Tsipouras, Journalist Greece
  203. Tatyana Khlestunova, independent journalist, Khabarovsk
  204. Ia Kldiashvili (IMS)
  205. Irina Nedeva, journalist, Bulgaria
  206. Colette Wahlqvist, International Media Support
  207. Vineet Malik, Founder and Editor In Chief, The Revelation, India
  208. Zerva Effi, editor ERT
  209. Tasoula Karaiskaki, editor, newspaper Kathimerini
  210. Abdalle Mumin, Secretary General of Somali Journalists Syndicate
  211. Rebecca Harms, Vice Chair – ECPMF
  212. Mogens Blicher Bjerregård, Chair – ECPMF
  213. Pablo Aiquel, secretary general of national union of journalists CGT – (SNJ-CGT) France
  214. Miriam Țepeș-Handaric, freelance journalist
  215. Vasili Ivanov-chikovani, news anchor, Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB)
  216. Katrin Wehry (Program Director Georgia, DW Akademie)
  217. Nelly Kalu, Center for Collaborative Investigative Journalism
  218. Roxana Stan, Recorder (Romania)
  219. Nastasia Arabuli, Journalist, Georgia
  220. Berdia,Kalandia, Timer.ge , Director , Georgia(Tbilisi)
  221. Nino Ivanishvili, GIPA, Caucasus School of Journalism, Dean
  222. Tiko Nachkebia, GIPA. Lecturer, Georgia
  223. Maka Bibilashvili, The Editor at NewsOn.ge, Georgia
  224. Ana Anghel-Dimache, Buletin de București, reporter, România
  225. Giorgi Jamburia, Journalist, freelance
  226. Eva Bognar, Mediaforum, Coordinating Director, Hungary
  227. Andres Schaefer, freelancer, Venezuela-Germany
  228. Tamar kvachantiradze journalist (commersant)
  229. Linda Graham, Broadcasting Scotland, Founder
  230. Fanny Dimitrakoudi, journalist, Greece
  231. Maria Tsintila, Journalist, Greece
  232. Berdia Kalandia, Timer.ge, Director, Georgia
  233. Luisa F Isaza-Ibarra, FLIP, Colombia
  234. Jefri Sutiono, CEO, Editor, Indonesia
  235. Irina Matchavariani, Freelance Journalist, Georgia
  236. Nini Gabritchidze, Author, Civil.ge
]]> IPI and partner organizations call for action as press freedom violations surge in Turkey in 2025 https://aej-bulgaria.org/en/ipi-and-partner-organizations-call-for-action-as-press-freedom-violations-surge-in-turkey-in-2025/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 11:36:54 +0000 https://aej-bulgaria.org/?p=42543 The International Press Institute (IPI), together with undersigned press freedom, freedom of expression, human rights, and journalists’ organizations, and media outlets, expresses serious concern over the recent escalation of press freedom violations in Turkey, marking a troubling start to the new year. The frequent use of arbitrary arrests, detentions, judicial control measures, and convictions poses […]]]>

The International Press Institute (IPI), together with undersigned press freedom, freedom of expression, human rights, and journalists’ organizations, and media outlets, expresses serious concern over the recent escalation of press freedom violations in Turkey, marking a troubling start to the new year. The frequent use of arbitrary arrests, detentions, judicial control measures, and convictions poses an existential threat to independent media, democratic discourse, and fundamental human rights in the country. 

Turkey must ensure that its practices align with international standards for the protection of freedom of expression and press freedom, as well as with the protections enshrined in its own constitution, in order to safeguard the foundations of democracy and human rights.

In January 2025 alone, at least nine journalists were arrested, six were sentenced to prison, five were detained, 23 faced investigations and one encountered police obstruction. Here is a timeline of a concerning acceleration of press freedom violations over the last month (the following is not an exhaustive list):

  • On January 2, authorities launched an investigation against journalist Aslıhan Gençay for her reporting on corruption in Hatay. They blocked access to her article and charged her with multiple offenses, including violations of the disinformation law—an apparent attempt to suppress investigative journalism.
  • On January 7, the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation against 21 journalists who covered the Kobani trial’s final hearing. The journalists face potential fines for alleged unauthorized photography—a move that effectively criminalizes routine court reporting.
  • On January 17, a coordinated crackdown led to the detention of six journalists – Reyhan Hacıoğlu, Necla Demir, Rahime Karvar, Vedat Örüç, Velat Ekin and Ahmet Güneş – across multiple cities. They were denied basic legal rights, including access to legal representation, and were subsequently arrested on January 20 without their statements being recorded. The authorities’ only justification appears to be their legitimate journalistic activities. (Note: Ahmet Güneş was released on February 4.)
  • On January 21, Rudaw TV correspondent Rawin Sterk Yıldız faced police interference while documenting a detention in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district. Despite clearly identifying himself as a journalist, he was prevented from documenting the public incident.
  • On January 23, a troubling verdict resulted in five journalists – Yakup Çetin, Ahmet Memiş, Cemal Azmi Kalyoncu, Ünal Tanık, Yetkin Yıldız, Gökçe Fırat Çulhaoğlu – receiving harsh sentences—ranging from 25 months to over six years in prison—in a terrorism-related case, despite the absence of credible evidence.
  • On January 24, the arrest of journalist Eylem Babayiğit once again demonstrated the arbitrary use of “membership of an organization” charges.
  • On January 28, the detention of journalists Barış Pehlivan, Seda Selek, and Serhan Asker following their broadcast of a recorded phone conversation with an expert witness raises concerns about limitations on the coverage of matters of public interest. The court released Seda Selek and Serhan Asker under judicial control measures.
  • On January 28, the launch of an investigation into T24 columnist Şirin Payzın for alleged “terror propaganda” over social media posts indicates a concerning expansion of surveillance and criminalization of online expression.
  • On January 28, the conviction of journalist Safiye Alagaş, former news editor for the pro-Kurdish JINNEWS, resulted in a six years and three months prison sentence. Alagaş has already spent a year in pretrial detention and is currently free while awaiting appeal.
  • On January 29, Halk TV editor-in-chief Suat Toktaş, program coordinator Kürşad Oğuz, and journalist Barış Pehlivan were detained for broadcasting a recorded phone conversation with an expert witness. While Pehlivan and Oğuz were released under judicial control measures, Toktaş was arrested—authorities cited flight risk and potential evidence tampering, demonstrating a concerning use of arbitrary detention criteria. Halk TV, one of Turkey’s largest private TV channels, is recognized for its critical programming.

Broadcast regulator’s decisions threaten press freedom

Turkey’s broadcast regulator RTÜK has demonstrated a concerning pattern of targeting critical media outlets. Just before the journalists’ detention over broadcasting a recorded phone conversation, the RTÜK Chair warned of potential consequences for media outlets and journalists regarding the same broadcast—effectively signaling the impending crackdown. In his statement, he criticized Halk TV for recording and broadcasting a phone conversation with an expert witness without permission and allegedly attempting to influence ongoing legal proceedings.

This incident reflects a broader pattern of regulatory pressure on critical media. In 2024, RTÜK imposed 24 broadcast bans resulting in fines totaling 81.5 million Turkish lira (approximately €2.2 million or $2.3 million), with the majority targeting media critical of the government. 

The systematic use of regulatory powers to penalize critical media outlets raises serious concerns about the independence of broadcast regulation and its impact on media pluralism in Turkey.

In a recent example, following the devastating hotel fire in Bolu that erupted in the early morning hours of January 20, 2025, claiming 78 lives, the RTÜK Chair directed media outlets to report solely on information from official sources. Shortly after this directive, the Bolu 2nd Criminal Court of Peace imposed a broadcasting ban on coverage of the disaster at the request of the Bolu Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Judicial control measures: a new tool for censorship
While there appears to be a decrease in the number of journalists in prison, this masks a troubling shift toward using judicial control measures—such as travel bans, regular check-ins at police stations, and house arrest—as alternative means of restricting press freedom. This trend represents an equally antidemocratic practice aimed at controlling journalists’ freedom of movement and expression. The systematic implementation of these measures, combined with increasing online censorship, appears to be replacing traditional detention as a method of silencing independent journalism.

Recent cases exemplify this pattern. While journalists are released under judicial control measures shortly after being detained, the arbitrary imposition of travel bans, house arrests and other restrictions continues to impede their ability to perform their professional duties effectively. These measures, originally intended as exceptional remedies to ensure judicial proceedings, are increasingly being weaponized to create a chilling effect on press freedom.

In light of these egregious violations of press freedom in Turkey, we urge the Turkish authorities to uphold the principles of justice, release the journalists subjected to arbitrary arrests and detentions, and safeguard the vital role of journalism in fostering debate on matters of public interest and democracy.

This statement was produced by IPI as part of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), a Europe-wide mechanism which tracks, monitors and responds to violations of press and media freedom in EU Member States and candidate countries, funded by the European Commission.


Signed:

International Press Institute (IPI)
Association of European Journalists (International)
Association of European Journalists in Belgium (AEJ Belgium)
Association of European Journalists in Bulgaria (AEJ Bulgaria)
Association of Journalists (GC)
Bulgarian Helsinki Committee
Catalan PEN
Center for Media, Information and Social Research of Georgia (CMIS)
Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ)
Danish PEN
European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF)
European Federation of Journalists (EFJ)
Freedom House
Foreign Media Association (FMA Turkey)
Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics
IFEX
Index on Censorship
International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)
Irish PEN/PEN na hEireann
Kurdish PEN
Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA)
Media and Migration Association (MMA)
Media Development Foundation (MDF)
Netgazeti / Batumelebi
OC Media
P24 Platform for Independent Journalism
Armãn PEN
PEN America
PEN Centre of Bosnia & Herzegovina
PEN Esperanto
PEN International
PEN Melbourne
PEN Norway
PEN Québec
PEN Sweden
PEN Türkiye
Progressive Journalists Association (PJA)
San Miguel PEN
South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO)
Vietnamese Abroad PEN Centre
Yapay Gündem

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