Many Turkish journalists had their accreditation applications rejected for the NATO summit in Ankara on July 7-8. Media outlets and journalism organizations said the decision is concerning for press freedom.
Which organizations were affected?
Independent media outlets such as Cumhuriyet, Sözcü, ANKA, T24 and Medyascope, as well as Ersin Çelik from the pro-government Yeni Şafak newspaper, announced that their accreditation applications to NATO were rejected. Ersin Çelik stated in a post on his Instagram account that his application was not approved.
Reaction from journalists' organization
The Turkish Journalists' Association (TGD) described the rejection of accreditation applications for numerous journalists as concerning for press freedom in a written statement. The statement said, "With this decision, NATO has also violated the principles of 'democracy, individual freedom and the rule of law' emphasized in its founding treaty."
Statement from NATO spokesperson
NATO Spokesperson Allison Hart said they rely on the host country's assessments in the accreditation process. Hart stated that NATO places great importance on the media being able to attend major events in person and that they are in contact with Turkish officials.
No response from the Communications Directorate
No statement has yet been made by the Turkish Communications Directorate on the matter.