Asaf Atasoy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Asfa Holding and a philanthropic businessman, issued a message on the occasion of the July 24 Journalists and Press Day.

Asaf Atasoy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Asfa Holding, included the following statements in his message;

The 24th of July 1908, when press censorship was lifted, guaranteeing journalists the impartial and free performance of their duties as intermediaries in fulfilling the public’s right to receive and disseminate information, is one of the most important turning points in the history of the Turkish press.

Today, our national and local press, adapting to the rapidly developing and changing media age, diligently fulfills its duty in bringing issues of interest to broad segments of society to the forefront, fulfilling the demands of our people, monitoring public affairs, and shaping public opinion on important issues.

Our press, which conducts its work with an impartial approach based on fundamental rights and freedoms, serves as the eyes, ears, and voice of our nation and contributes to the public’s right to information.

Our esteemed members of the press, who carry out their duties with this understanding, courage, and selflessness, deserve all praise and appreciation.

With these feelings and thoughts, on the anniversary of the lifting of press censorship in our country, I congratulate the entire press community, especially the valuable local and national press members who serve with dedication in our province, on “July 24th Journalists and Press Day,” and I commemorate with mercy the press workers who lost their lives while fulfilling their duties.

Abdullah Yiğit – Istanbul

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

The press is not only the eyes, ears, and voice of the people, but also a cornerstone of democracy. Members of the press, who ensure society’s right to access accurate information, are the voice of the public conscience and a key player in shaping common sense.

With the abolition of censorship in the Turkish press on July 24, 1908, this historic step taken in the name of press freedom became a symbol not only of the profession of journalism but also of social enlightenment. This meaningful day reminds us once again of the importance of a free, independent, and impartial press.

Today, we live in an age where technology advances at a dizzying pace. While these advancements facilitate access to information, they also bring with them disinformation and misinformation. In such an environment, distinguishing truth from falsehood is the greatest test not only for individuals but also for journalists who practice their profession within ethical guidelines. Therefore, the importance of principled, responsible, and conscientious journalism is greater than ever.

With these feelings and thoughts, I wholeheartedly celebrate July 24th Journalists and Press Day, especially for all local and national press workers working in our province, and for all our journalists who work tirelessly day and night to ensure our nation’s right to access news. I wish them health, success, and ease in their professional lives.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: July 24, 2025