Swedish journalist Joakim Medin, who was jailed in Turkey on charges of insulting the president and alleged membership in a terrorist organization, has been released upon MLSA's objection and has left the country.
Medin was detained on March 28 upon arrival at Istanbul Airport and later jailed on accusations of “insulting the president” and “membership in a terrorist organization.” Following an appeal by MLSA’s Legal Unit, the Istanbul 13th High Criminal Court approved his release.
After completing administrative procedures, Medin departed from Turkey on Friday. However, he still faces legal proceedings. The first hearing in the terrorism-related case is scheduled for Sept. 25, 2025.
In a separate case, also handled by MLSA, Medin was sentenced to 11 months and 20 days in prison for allegedly insulting the Turkish president. That verdict was issued during a hearing on April 30, and the court had ruled for his release at the time. However, Medin remained in custody due to the separate terrorism charges.
The indictment for the terrorist organization membership charge was initially filed in Ankara, but the Ankara 17th High Criminal Court ruled that it lacked jurisdiction. The case file was then transferred to Istanbul. Medin was held in Silivri Prison, a high-security facility on the outskirts of Istanbul, until his release was approved by the Istanbul 13th High Criminal Court following MLSA’s petition for his release without a hearing.
Despite his departure, legal proceedings in Turkey are expected to continue. The outcome of the trial on terrorism charges in September may have further implications for Medin, who has previously reported on Kurdish issues and human rights in Turkey.
