Turkey is set to introduce a controversial new law aimed at combating so-called “foreign influence agents”, sparking concern among journalists and civil society groups that it could be used to suppress dissent. The bill targets individuals allegedly working “against the security of the state or its political interests” at the behest of foreign entities. The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) criticizes the vague wording of the legislation, which would give the authorities greater power to crack down on any criticism of the government.

The proposed law is part of a broader judicial package tabled by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party (AKP). It introduces a new crime related to espionage “against the security or political interests of the state in line with the strategic interests or instructions of a foreign state or organization”. It carries a prison sentence of three to seven years.

Withdrawn in May after strong criticisms from the opposition parties, the bill is set to be rediscussed in Parliament in the coming days. Dozens of journalists and media organizations criticized the move, calling on the government to withdraw what they see as a dangerous step towards repressing free expression in Turkey.

“The ‘foreign influence agent law’ proposed by the government of Turkey is an alarming threat to freedom of expression and civil society,” said EFJ Vice-President Mustafa Kuleli. “This vaguely worded bill could turn everyday journalistic and civil advocacy activities into punishable crimes, creating a chilling effect on independent media and silencing critical voices. We call on the Turkish government to abandon this harmful legislation and uphold the democratic rights enshrined in Turkey’s constitution.”

EFJ General Secretary Ricardo Gutiérrez echoed these concerns, warning that Turkey’s draft legislation follows in the footsteps of repressive laws enacted in Russia and Georgia: “This bill is a direct attack on press freedom and civil society. Under the guise of state security, Turkey risks criminalizing legitimate journalism and advocacy work, eroding the foundations of democratic society.”