The Radio and Television Supreme Council of Turkey (RTÜK) revoked the terrestrial broadcast licence of the station Açık Radyo on Friday 11 October, effectively ending its 30-year presence on the airwaves. Açık Radyo, widely known for amplifying civil voices and promoting environmental advocacy and media freedom, has been a significant platform for public dialogue across Turkey through the years.
The revocation followed penalties imposed after a broadcast on 24 April, where the term ‘Armenian genocide‘ was used during the programme Açık Gazete (Open Newspaper). The RTÜK fined the station and issued five suspension orders over the matter, eventually cancelling the licence, citing failure to comply as grounds for the decision. Açık Radyo, however, maintains that the move is an attack on free expression using bureaucracy and technicalities.
A previous court ruling temporarily blocked the decision of the RTÜK, allowing Açık Radyo to continue broadcasting. However, on 27 September, Ankara’s Administrative Court overturned that ruling, permitting the RTÜK to proceed with the licence cancellation. Açık Radyo is currently appealing both the revocation and the latest court decision.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, the station has expressed optimism that the suspension will be temporary. They also called on listeners, professional organisations and the international community to speak out against what they describe as a critical blow to media freedom in Turkey. “Whereas, as millions of listeners can testify, the community influence created thanks to Açık Radyo throughout so many years will not be silenced,” the station said, urging solidarity in their fight.
