Turkish Authorities Silence Acik Radyo for Acknowledging Armenian Genocide

Istanbul, Turkey - Acik Radyo, a prominent independent radio station in Istanbul, was forced off the air on Wednesday after a six-month battle with Turkish authorities. The station's transgression? Allowing a guest to use the term "Armenian Genocide" during an April broadcast.

Turkey's media regulator, RTUK, wasted no time in punishing the station. First came a five-day suspension in May, with RTUK accusing the program of "inciting hatred." Then, in July, came the final blow: the revocation of Acik Radyo's license. Despite this, the station fought to remain on air until the bitter end.

"Acik Radyo’s terrestrial broadcast will be cut off today at 1300 local time (1000 GMT)," the station announced on X (formerly Twitter) on the morning of their forced closure.

The station's offense was referencing the systematic killing of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire in 1915, a historical event widely recognized as genocide by numerous countries and scholars. However, Turkey continues to vehemently deny the use of the term "genocide."

Despite the shutdown, Acik Radyo remains defiant, vowing to continue broadcasting through alternative means and fight the decision through legal channels.

"Our radio has become an amplifier for civilian voices," the station declared in a statement, highlighting their dedication to diverse issues such as climate change, public health, and gender equality.

Acik Radyo, established three decades ago, has built a reputation for its commitment to open dialogue and inclusivity. The station's closure is a significant blow to freedom of expression in Turkey and highlights the ongoing struggle to acknowledge the Armenian Genocide.