French reporter detained while covering pro-Kurdish rally in Turkey

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 21 January 2026 |  JP Middle East Desk

A French reporter, Raphael Boukandoura, who holds Turkish press accreditation, was arrested while covering a pro-Kurdish rally in Istanbul's Sancaktepe district, despite identifying himself as a working journalist.

Summary

ISTANBUL — A French journalist was arrested by Turkish police on January 19 while covering a pro-Kurdish rally in Istanbul’s Sancaktepe district, raising fresh concerns about the treatment of accredited foreign media during politically sensitive demonstrations in Turkey.

The reporter, Raphael Boukandoura, is a veteran correspondent who holds official Turkish press accreditation and was in Istanbul to report on the rally as part of his professional duties. His detention occurred alongside that of other demonstrators, despite his identification as a working journalist.

Press freedom concerns raised by detention

Press freedom advocates say Boukandoura’s arrest reflects a broader pattern in which journalists are detained during protests and treated as participants rather than observers. Media rights groups argue that such practices undermine the ability of reporters to document public events and restrict the flow of independent information during periods of political tension.

Boukandoura works with French outlets including Ouest-France and Courrier International, both of which are widely read for their international coverage. His case has drawn attention within European media circles, where concerns persist about legal and operational pressures on journalists working in Turkey, particularly when covering Kurdish-related issues.

Diplomatic response from France

The French foreign ministry has publicly urged Turkish authorities to release Boukandoura, underscoring diplomatic concern over the protection of journalists carrying out their work abroad. The ministry emphasized the importance of respecting press freedom and ensuring that accredited reporters are able to operate without interference.

The incident adds to ongoing scrutiny of Turkey’s approach to protest policing and media freedom, especially during demonstrations linked to sensitive political or ethnic issues. Observers note that arrests of journalists, even if temporary, can have a chilling effect on coverage by both local and foreign correspondents.

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting based on publicly available statements from the French foreign ministry and press freedom advocates, as well as confirmed details of the arrest reported by international media outlets.

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