İstanbul prosecutors have launched an investigation into media coverage of the 2013 Gezi Park protests, requesting broadcast archives from Turkey’s media watchdog, the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK), Turkey’s main-stream television HaberTürk reported on Monday. The move follows the recent arrest of talent agent Ayşe Barım, accused of planning the protests.
The prosecutors claim that some media outlets’ coverage of the mass anti-government demonstrations, which erupted on 27 May 2013, amounted to propaganda that fuelled the unrest. In a letter to RTÜK, they requested footage from outlets that allegedly portrayed the protests as “legal” and contributed to their spread. RTÜK is expected to compile and submit a report, potentially leading to legal action against media executives.
Barım, co-founder of ID İletişim, was initially investigated for monopolising Turkey’s entertainment industry. However, on 24 January, prosecutors launched a separate probe, alleging her involvement in orchestrating the Gezi Park protests in 2013. She was arrested three days later on charges of aiding an attempt to overthrow the government. Several prominent actors, including Halit Ergenç and Rıza Kocaoğlu, testified in her case, denying any connection to Barım or actor Mehmet Ali Alabora, another figure accused of involvement. Prosecutors have since opened a perjury investigation against them.
The probe into media coverage has sparked criticism. RTÜK opposition member İlhan Taşçı stated that the agency does not archive broadcasts beyond one year and questioned the legal basis for such a request. Critics argue the investigation is an attempt to rewrite history and suppress dissent.
The 2013 Gezi Park protests were among Turkey’s largest anti-government demonstrations, beginning as an environmental sit-in before escalating into a nationwide movement against then-Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s rule.
