Medya-İş Supports Journalists and Makes Critical Calls

Ankara - In his message published on the occasion of July 24th Journalists' and Press Day, Medya-İş Union President Sezai Ballı emphasized the social responsibility of the journalism profession and the importance of press freedom, and drew attention to the developments both locally and internationally. "We want a free and responsible press," Ballı said, reiterating his union's clear stance on this issue.

July 24: Anniversary of the Abolition of Censorship

Starting his message by reminding the importance of July 24, 1908, President Ballı stated that this date was "a historical step towards the abolition of censorship and the liberation of the press". Stating that this meaningful day once again reminds the duty of journalists on behalf of the public and the right of the society to access healthy information, Ballı emphasized that journalism not only provides access to information, but also contributes to social peace, democracy and the integrity of the country. For this reason, Medya-İş stated that they protect both freedom of expression and the principle of responsible journalism together.

Clear Stance on Provocative Broadcasts: Emphasis on Truth and Respect

Sezai Ballı took a clear stance against the abuse of the concept of freedom of the press. Emphasizing that publications that drive people to hatred and hatred and target the unity of the country cannot be legitimized under the guise of freedom of the press, Ballı said, "Journalism should be based on respect for the country, the people and the truth. It is also unacceptable to censor news that informs the public correctly and is based on the truth."

International Attention to the Tragedy of Journalists in Gaza

In the international section of his message, President Ballı drew attention to the harsh conditions faced by journalists in Gaza and called on the international community to be sensitive. Stating that Israel is trying to silence not only a people but also the truth with its blockade, Ballı said: "Today, journalists are dying not only from bombs but also from hunger, thirst and disease. These conditions are now pushing not only the limits of a profession but also the threshold of humanity. We have to protect the honor of this profession, which does not remain silent even in war," he said, drawing attention to the humanitarian crisis faced by members of the press working in Gaza.

"We Fight for the Rights of the People and Journalists"

Finishing his message by saying, "We neither accept uncontrolled and harmful broadcasting nor the silencing of journalists who write the truth. We want a free and responsible press," President Ballı concluded, stressing that Medya-İş will continue its struggle to defend both the public's right to access accurate information and the professional rights of journalists. Finally, Ballı saluted all journalists who continue their profession with honor and commemorated the press workers who lost their lives in the line of duty with respect and mercy.