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Some news about me:
Yesterday (Wednesday) I was detained by police in Istanbul, held for 17 hours and then deported from Turkey to the UK. Told I was “a threat to public order”. In the country I lived in – and love.
Journalism is not a crime.
Here’s the BBC’s statement:

Mark Lowen’s Detention and Deportation: An Assault on Press Freedom

On March 27, 2025, renowned journalist Mark Lowen shared alarming news regarding his recent experiences in Turkey. In a post on Twitter, he revealed that he was detained by police in Istanbul, held for 17 hours, and subsequently deported back to the UK. Authorities cited him as “a threat to public order,” a claim that raises serious concerns about freedom of the press and the rights of journalists in Turkey, a country with a complicated relationship with media freedom.

Lowen, who has lived in Turkey for an extended period and developed a deep affection for the country, expressed his dismay over the incident, asserting that "journalism is not a crime." This statement reflects a broader issue facing journalists globally, particularly in regions where government actions threaten the independence of the media.

The incident has garnered significant attention, leading to a statement from the BBC, emphasizing the importance of press freedom and the need for journalists to operate without fear of persecution. The BBC’s response highlights the growing concern among international organizations regarding the treatment of journalists in Turkey, especially as the country has seen a marked increase in media censorship in recent years.

The Context of Media Freedom in Turkey

Turkey has been criticized for its authoritarian stance on press freedom, particularly under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The government has been known to crack down on journalists, often labeling them as terrorists or threats to national security when they report on sensitive issues. This environment creates a chilling effect, discouraging journalists from pursuing stories that might anger the authorities.

Mark Lowen’s case is not an isolated incident; many journalists have faced similar fates, leading to widespread international condemnation. Organizations such as Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists have consistently ranked Turkey low on their press freedom indexes, illustrating the challenges faced by media professionals in the region.

Implications for Journalists and Press Freedom

Lowen’s detention serves as a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face, particularly in countries where government control over media is prevalent. As journalists like Lowen strive to report the truth and provide critical coverage, the risks associated with their work become increasingly apparent. The incident underscores the broader implications for press freedom worldwide, as governments may feel emboldened to silence dissenting voices under the guise of maintaining public order.

The international community must rally to support journalists and advocate for their rights. This includes urging governments to protect press freedom and hold accountable those who violate the rights of journalists. The fight for media freedom is essential for democracy, transparency, and the public’s right to information.

Conclusion

Mark Lowen’s recent experience in Turkey highlights a troubling trend in the treatment of journalists and the ongoing battle for press freedom. As the world watches, it is crucial to stand with journalists who risk their lives and liberty to bring important stories to light. Advocacy for press freedom is not just about protecting journalists; it is about preserving democracy and ensuring that the truth prevails, regardless of political pressures. The statement “journalism is not a crime” resonates deeply in today’s world, reminding us all of the critical role that a free press plays in society.

Some news about me:
Yesterday (Wednesday) I was detained by police in Istanbul, held for 17 hours and then deported from Turkey to the UK. Told I was “a threat to public order”. In the country I lived in – and love.
Journalism is not a crime.
Here’s the BBC’s statement: pic.twitter.com/vhw7BHlbnn

— Mark Lowen (@marklowen) March 27, 2025

Some news about me:

Yesterday (Wednesday), I was detained by police in Istanbul, held for 17 hours, and then deported from Turkey to the UK. The authorities claimed I was “a threat to public order.” Can you believe that? This happened in a country I lived in and genuinely love. My heart sank as I was forced to leave this vibrant place, filled with rich culture and warmth. Isn’t it ironic that a journalist, whose job is to report, share stories, and promote understanding, would be treated as a threat?

Yesterday (Wednesday) I was detained by police in Istanbul, held for 17 hours and then deported from Turkey to the UK.

This entire ordeal has left me baffled. Being detained for 17 hours is no small feat. Imagine being in a foreign country, sitting in a cold room, wondering what will happen next. I had my phone taken away, and I couldn’t contact anyone. The silence was deafening, and I was left to ponder how the very work I do could lead to such a situation. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges many journalists face globally, particularly in regions where freedom of speech is under threat.

Told I was “a threat to public order.”

Hearing that I was deemed a “threat to public order” felt surreal. I’ve spent years covering stories, diving deep into the nuances of Turkish culture, politics, and everyday life. My aim has always been to foster understanding and compassion through my reporting. Yet, in the eyes of the authorities, my presence was somehow disruptive. This incident highlights the precarious nature of journalism in certain parts of the world, where simply reporting the truth can lead to severe consequences.

In the country I lived in – and love.

Turkey holds a special place in my heart. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene landscapes of Cappadocia, it’s a country that boasts incredible beauty and history. The warmth of the people, the aroma of street food, and the vibrancy of daily life have always captivated me. I’ve built relationships and friendships here that I cherish deeply. Being uprooted from a place I call home is heartbreaking. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the love you have for a place isn’t enough to shield you from the harsh realities of political climates.

Journalism is not a crime.

It’s essential to emphasize that journalism is not a crime. The role of a journalist is to seek the truth and relay it to the public. In many countries, including Turkey, journalists face intimidation, censorship, and even violence for doing their jobs. This reality makes it more crucial than ever to stand firm in the belief that we must protect freedom of press and expression. The very fabric of democracy relies on the ability to question, to investigate, and to report without fear.

Here’s the BBC’s statement:

In light of my detention, the BBC released a statement that underscored the gravity of the situation. They reiterated their commitment to supporting journalists and highlighted the importance of safeguarding press freedom worldwide. Their backing means a lot, especially during challenging times like these. You can view the full statement here. It’s comforting to know that there are organizations out there advocating for journalists’ rights, reminding us that our work matters, and that we are not alone in this struggle.

The Bigger Picture of Press Freedom

This incident isn’t just about me; it’s part of a larger trend affecting journalists globally. In many regions, reporting the truth is met with hostility and aggression. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, hundreds of journalists are imprisoned worldwide, while others face threats to their lives for merely doing their jobs. It’s alarming to think that in the pursuit of truth, many journalists risk everything. The fight for press freedom is ongoing, and each story matters in this battle.

What Can We Do?

As individuals, we can contribute to a culture that values journalism and free speech. Support independent news outlets, engage with journalists on platforms like Twitter, and share stories that resonate with you. Awareness is key, and every action counts. We must advocate for policies that protect journalistic integrity and demand accountability from those in power. It’s a collective responsibility to ensure that the voices of journalists, and the stories they tell, are not silenced.

My Journey Continues

Despite the challenges I faced, I’m more determined than ever to continue my work. I want to share stories that matter, shed light on underreported issues, and connect people across cultures. My experience in Turkey, while painful, has fueled my passion for journalism. I believe in the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster understanding. As I navigate this new chapter back in the UK, I carry with me the lessons learned and the stories waiting to be told.

In the end, the fight for journalistic freedom is a fight for all of us. Let’s continue to support one another, advocate for truth, and ensure that journalism remains a beacon of hope in a world that desperately needs it.