Media chief claims Turkey is the country most at risk of disinformation

Photo: AA

Click to read the article in Turkish

Turkey's Communications Director, Fahrettin Altun, emphasized the necessity for global solidarity to counter disinformation and its destructive effects during a "Disaster Diplomacy" panel at the National Press Club in Washington on Monday (April 17).

On behalf of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Altun highlighted the disastrous impact of two major earthquakes and subsequent aftershocks that affected over 14 million citizens across 62 districts of 11 provinces on February 6.

In his video message, the spokesperson stated that since the beginning of the disaster the country has been dealing with fake news and false information.

"While we were trying to save lives and heal wounds, unfortunately, we had to fight against the circulation of fake news and false information. ... We ensured that the public was informed with correct information," the communication director noted.

Temporary Twitter block

Two days after the devastating tremblors that killed over 50,000 people and severely damaged over 227,000 buildings, the authorities limited the bandwidth of Twitter for almost a full day, blocking access to the platform without a VPN or proxy connection. Following criticism that Twitter was crucial in rescue efforts, with victims tweeting their locations to call for help, the restriction was lifted.

In a recent interview on Habertürk TV, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Adil Karaismailoğlu defended the internet restrictions put in place by remarking that "it was necessary," but he did not provide any justification for the temporary block.

Fahrettin Altun emphasized in his message yesterday that disinformation can harm both national security and the security of citizens, stressing that Turkey is the country most exposed to disinformation.

"It has become clear how disinformation can harm not only national security but also directly the security of life and property of citizens. As the country most exposed to disinformation, Turkey resolutely voices its harms. It should be known that this is not only Turkey's but also all countries' and the international community's problem," he highlighted in the panel.

'Censorship law'

In October 2022, a disinformation law was enacted by the country, which has stirred up controversy. The opposition and journalism organizations have dubbed it a "censorship law" with the intention of muting the government's critics before the 2023 elections.

For instance, several social media users and at least one journalist have been charged with "spreading disinformation" in the aftermath of the quakes. This led to criticism by media freedom watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

Furthermore, Turkey's upcoming elections are ranked among the most vulnerable in the world, according to the Election Vulnerability Index by Freedom House. This is due to strict laws criminalizing online expression, the government's concentration of power, and efforts to silence independent journalism and dissent.

(VC/WM)