Independent journalist Ulviyya Shahin is banned from leaving the country, she told local reporters. On March 21, 2016 Ulviyya Shahin tried to leave for Turkey but was slapped with a travel ban. She suspects that the reason for the travel ban is her journalist activity.
“The very first time I learned there was a STOP sign in front of my name was when I returned from Ukraine back in September last year,” Ulviyya Shahin said. “After that, March 21 was the first time I tried leaving the country. However, the State Border Service staff told me I was banned from leaving the country. They told me I should know better, and that they don’t have the right to tell me anything.”
“They referred me to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the State Border Service in order to learn more about the ban. This March, I wanted to bring my daughter to Turkiye for treatment. The only reason for the ban I can think of is journalist activity as an independent journalist. I know that there is no legal basis for the ban. Therefore, I have talked to my lawyer. I will take the case to the court.”
A few days ago, another independent journalist, Guler Mehdizade, was also banned from leaving the country presumably due to her cooperation with Meydan TV.