Following a decision made during a hearing at Istanbul’s 23rd High Criminal Court, journalist Necla Demir Arvas was released from Bakırköy Closed Prison on Monday.

She was greeted outside the prison by fellow journalists and her family. In a brief statement made in front of the prison, Necla Demir Arvas said that journalism was being put on trial and criminalized, adding: "The defiant, freedom-loving women inside send you all their warmest greetings. I was unlawfully detained for three months due to the programs I produced. I send my heartfelt regards to the women who never held back their words and whose solidarity I felt deeply while in prison."

Demir added: "As long as women continue to speak out, they will continue to defend their lives. And we will, of course, continue to carry their voices and words. During the hearing, when I tried to speak, the judge cut me off. The issue of sick prisoners has reached a critical point and still remains unresolved. I have hope that those still inside will soon regain their freedom. And they are continuing to resist in prison with that same spirit, strength, and awareness."