How the Turkish media has been immersed into the quagmire of oppression The Media Line Staff About this Event Since the end of the Cold War, and the deregulation of the media three decades ago, the story of Turkish journalism – both conventional and online – has been characterised by a pitched battle for freedom, independence and pluralism. The Turkish media has rocked and reeled from an endless series of restrictive, punitive legislation, trials and imprisonment of journalists, the weakening of union rights, systematic sackings and takeovers by pro-government businessmen. Reporting taboos have returned and the industry is in its worst state ever – the Erdoğan government is now in effective control of more than 95% of the sector. While the outlook may be bleak for now, Turkey’s story is filled with lessons for the world on how to counter authoritarian pressure on the media and preserve the free flow of information and good journalism in an age of turmoil.