European journalists group urges EU to end 'discriminatory visa rejections' for journalists from Turkey

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The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) has raised concerns over the increasing difficulties that journalists from Turkey face when applying for Schengen visas, urging an end to "discriminatory practices."

"We demand an end to the de facto visa embargo imposed on journalists from Schengen countries. We call on their embassies to rectify discriminatory approaches towards journalists. Do not hinder journalists with prejudices," said Mustafa Kuleli, EFJ vice chair.

The EFJ highlighted that visa application assessments have become stricter, resulting in lengthy waiting periods even for appointment scheduling, and a drastic increase in in rejections.

The group pointed out that even journalists visiting European Union countries for professional duties are granted short-term visas, a situation they described as burdensome and financially unsustainable, calling for a resolution.

Over the past year, obtaining Schengen visas has become increasingly challenging for citizens of Turkey, with visa rejections impacting various individuals, including business people, students, journalists, and artists.

The embassies of EU countries in Turkey rank among the top three worldwide in terms of Schengen visa applications. Despite a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately one million people from Turkey apply for Schengen visas annually. In 2022, 15% of applications were rejected, while in the first six months of 2023, around 50% of applications were denied. The global average for rejected Schengen visa applications is approximately 13.4%. (HA/VK)