Freedom of the press, one of the first conditions for modernization and progress, is indispensable for every individual's access to information, freedom of expression and the public's right to know the truth.

This is an open letter presented to the public as Cagdas Yasami Destekleme Dernegi for journalists and other press workers who do not hesitate to express their opinions freely, who are subjected to unlawful sanctions due to their ethical values, and who report the real agenda of the country and the world accurately, impartially and freely, and thus work for the public to have information and ideas:

Freedom of the press, one of the first conditions for modernization and progress, is indispensable for every individual's access to information, freedom of expression and the public's right to know the truth. Journalists around the world face threats, harassment and even violence in the exercise of their freedom to report. These dangers threaten not only the safety of journalists, but also the public's access to information and right to know the truth. Restrictions on press freedom undermine the transparency and accountability that underpin democracy, and all necessary measures must be taken to ensure that journalists can do their work safely. However, protecting and upholding these fundamental rights is still an important struggle today. Especially in our country, this struggle brings with it a situation that is getting more and more severe with each passing day.

Despite more than a century since its foundation, the Republic of Türkiye ranks 158th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index. According to the 2022-2023 Press Freedom Report of the Journalists' Union, 97 journalists have been detained for a total of 1,087 hours since last year, 32 journalists have been arrested and 47 journalists are still in prison.

On World Press Freedom Day, we recall the importance of receiving accurate, fast and unbiased news and celebrate the courageous and important work of journalists around the world who fight to defend and protect press freedom. Each of us must oppose restrictions that impede access to information and support freedom of expression. Governments, media organizations and individuals must recognize the importance of journalism to democratic societies. It must never be forgotten that this is a duty not only for journalists, but for the benefit of all humanity.

We hope to celebrate many more May 3rds together with everyone who dreams of a Türkiye that is a determinant rather than a follower of universal norms with its transparency, freedom, impartiality and achievements in the modern future of our country...