With its judgment in favour of Deniz Yücel the European Court of Human Rights has underscored the importance of freedom of the press in a vibrant society. This signal of support for independent, critical journalism goes far beyond this individual case. Today, therefore, I am thinking of the many other media professionals in Turkey and in other countries who are harassed and persecuted in the course of their crucial work.

The judgment is good. However, I am also aware that no compensation can give back to Deniz Yücel the year of his life that was taken away from him by his groundless detention.