Turkish authorities shut down radio station following license revocation over Armenian Genocide remarks

YEREVAN, OCTOBER 17, ARMENPRESS. Açık Radyo, a prominent independent radio station based in İstanbul, ceased broadcasting on October 16 after the Turkish Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) revoked its broadcasting license, Bianet reported.

The RTÜK decision came following repeated penalties for using the term Armenian Genocide during the station's "Açık Gazete" morning news program.

Despite legal challenges, the RTÜK's decision was upheld, leading to the closure of the 29-year-old station.

RTÜK revoked the license earlier in July.

The station, known for its focus on social, cultural, and political issues, had a significant following in İstanbul. It is collectively owned by hundreds of shareholders and featured contributions from over 1,000 individuals over the years, according to Bianet.

Açık Radyo's final broadcast saw participation from station staff and over 40 program hosts, and a large group of listeners who gathered at the station’s headquarters in the Tophane quarter in Beyoğlu.

Ömer Madra, the station’s founder, delivered the last message: "And so, we end. We thank all Açık Radyo listeners and supporters. Açık Radyo will remain open to all the sounds, colors, and vibrations of the universe.”

The station then played "Good Vibrations" by The Beach Boys before ceasing its broadcast.

After the broadcast, Madra and other broadcasters stepped outside to applause from supporters gathered in the station’s courtyard.