In October 2026, an Istanbul court ordered the blocking of T24, one of Türkiye's largest independent news outlets. The judicial order followed official claims that 118 articles published by the platform over the past year constituted "LGBT propaganda," cutting off public access to the news website.
T24 is widely recognized as a prominent independent media organization in Türkiye, known for its sustained coverage of civil liberties, public affairs, and human rights issues. The court's decision coincides with an intensifying governmental crackdown targeting LGBTIQ+ activists, civil society organizations, and digital publications across the country.
The access ban quickly drew international criticism, with the European Union formally raising concerns regarding the restrictions. EU officials stressed that freedom of expression and media freedom represent foundational European values that Türkiye is expected to uphold as an official candidate country.
This judicial move marks a serious escalation in state censorship and digital restrictions across the Turkish media landscape. Rights advocates warn that classifying factual reporting on queer communities as illegal propaganda sets a damaging precedent, restricting public access to independent information while shrinking the civic space for marginalized groups.
European Editorial Office: Lucas Bakker