German union urges envoy summons after DW reporter jailed
Deutsche Welle
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The German Journalists Association (DJV) has called on Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul to summon Turkey's ambassador to Berlin following the pretrial detention of DW reporter Alican Uludag. Uludag was arrested last Thursday after a post from over a year ago criticized Turkish government actions, including corruption and the release of potential "Islamic State" terrorists. The DJV labeled the arrest as harassment of an independent journalist and a direct attack on Deutsche Welle's mission to provide unbiased news.
Uludag, known for his courageous reporting on human rights and corruption in Turkey, was awarded the Raif Badawi Prize for Courageous Journalism in 2021. His work highlights the challenges faced by journalists in Turkey, where press freedom is severely constrained. The country ranks 159th out of 180 nations in Reporters Without Borders' index, with much of its media under government control.
The arrest has raised concerns about the broader implications for press freedom in Turkey and beyond. Uludag's case underscores the dangers faced by journalists who dare to criticize those in power, particularly in countries where independent media is under threat. The DJV's urging for diplomatic action reflects the international community's growing attention to these issues, emphasizing the importance of protecting journalists' rights globally.
This situation matters to readers interested in global press freedom and human rights. It highlights Turkey's ongoing struggle with media control and the risks faced by journalists seeking to hold power accountable. Uludag's case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by independent reporters
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/24/2026