RTÜK Issues Heavy Sanctions on Critical Media Outlets and Platforms

The Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) has imposed sweeping penalties on several independent and opposition-aligned media outlets, including Halk TV, SÖZCÜ TV, and Tele 1, escalating concerns over press freedom and media pluralism in Türkiye.

Among the most severe rulings was a 10-day broadcast suspension for Halk TV and multiple administrative fines issued for allegedly violating broadcasting ethics, particularly around inciting hatred, insulting individuals, and violating privacy.

Halk TV Faces Suspension, License at Risk

RTÜK ruled that statements made by atomic engineer Tolga Yarman during “Sinem Fıstıkoğlu ile Sansürsüz”—in which he said “Türkiye is not becoming religious, but sectarian” and “We were incited against Iran starting with the naming of the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge”—constituted “incitement to hatred and hostility”, resulting in a 10-day blackout penalty.

In a separate episode of the same program, CHP MP Yunus Emre’s criticisms of Mehmet Uçum, a senior presidential advisor, led to a 3% administrative fine for violating the dignity and privacy clauses.

RTÜK warned that any additional violations within the year may result in permanent license revocation for Halk TV.

SÖZCÜ TV and Tele 1 Also Penalized

SÖZCÜ TV received a 3% administrative fine due to a comment by guest Türker Ertürk, who accused the government of being “a subcontractor of imperialism” during the program “Öncesi Sonrası Gece”. RTÜK claimed this breached rules against demeaning individuals or institutions.

Tele 1, meanwhile, was fined for criticizing Akit newspaper’s headline—“Ferdi Zeyrek Çarpıldı” (a play on words implying ridicule)—after the tragic death of Manisa’s mayor due to electrocution. RTÜK penalized the broadcaster, not the original headline, citing humiliation beyond the bounds of criticism.

RTÜK Member: “Licenses Are Hanging by a Thread”

RTÜK member İlhan Taşçı shared the rulings on social media, warning:
“Tele 1, Halk TV, and SÖZCÜ TV could be shut down entirely if they receive another penalty under similar clauses within the year.” He criticized what he called a sword hanging over critical media, while pro-government outlets face no repercussions for inflammatory content.

Streaming Platforms Also Targeted: Netflix and Spotify Fined

Netflix was fined 5% for allegedly promoting violence and violating public morality standards through the film “Barda”, which RTÜK claimed breaches guidelines protecting national and moral values.

Spotify was similarly fined 5%, and ordered to remove specific tracks containing swear words and slang deemed inappropriate under the same content rules.

Mounting Concerns Over Press Freedom

The latest RTÜK actions have intensified debate over media censorship and the erosion of freedom of expression in Türkiye. Taşçı concluded his remarks by pointing to a widening double standard, stating:
“They ask where Akit gets its audacity? Today’s ruling gives the answer—directly from RTÜK.”

As independent media face mounting pressure, critics say the council is increasingly acting as a political tool, curbing critical journalism, and threatening public access to diverse viewpoints.