Turkey introduces jail terms for spreading 'fake news'

Turkey's parliament approved a controversial law on Thursday evening that would provide prison terms for spreading "false or misleading news". Courts can use it to sentence accredited journalists and ordinary social media users to one to three years in prison. Eight months before the parliamentary elections, the government is intensifying its already tough crackdown on the media.

In addition to newspapers, radio and television, the new law is primarily aimed at online networks and online media. They are encouraged to denounce users who are accused of spreading "fake news" and passing on their data.

The deliberations on the law began in early October. There were numerous amendments to the 40 articles of the “press law” passed on Thursday evening by the opposition, which spoke of a “censorship law”. The applications were rejected. "This law declares war on the truth," said MP Meral Danis Bektas from the pro-Kurdish opposition party HDP.

Article 29 provides for prison sentences of between one and three years for "spreading false or misleading information about the country's internal and external security", as well as for news "damaging public health, disturbing public order, fear or panic in the country". population could spread".

The bill was introduced in May by MPs from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling AKP. Erdogan, who has been trying to silence critics for a long time, wants to be confirmed in office next year. It is likely to be the most difficult election for him since he began his tenure almost two decades ago. The polls for his ruling party are at an all-time low because of runaway inflation and a currency crisis.

Non-governmental organizations regularly denounce the erosion of press freedom in Turkey. Turkey currently ranks 149th out of 180 in the Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders.