Insult as a Criminal Offense in Turkey – According to the Turkish Penal Code (TCK)


Insult is a criminal offense defined in Article 125 of the Turkish Penal Code (TCK). It refers to any act or statement that intentionally offends a person’s honor, dignity, or reputation. The offense can occur in person, via phone, or through digital channels like social media or email.

Üner Law Firm, a well-established Alanya lawyer office, offers legal assistance in insult-related criminal and compensation cases.

What qualifies as an insult under Turkish law?

For an act to be considered a criminal insult under Turkish law, three elements must be met:

  1. The victim must be a clearly identifiable individual.

  2. The words or behavior must damage the person’s dignity or social standing.

  3. The act must be committed with intent (malicious or degrading).

If even one of these elements is missing, the statement may not constitute a crime. Whether the behavior is considered "insult" or not depends on the context.

Is insulting someone on social media a crime in Turkey?

Yes. Making derogatory or humiliating statements on platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp is considered public insult, which is an aggravated form of the crime under Article 125/2 TCK. Penalties are more severe when the offense is committed publicly.

If you’re a victim, you can report the insult with screenshots, timestamps, or witness statements. Üner Law Firm in Alanya assists clients in handling digital evidence and criminal filings.

What are the penalties for insult in Turkey?

  • 3 months to 2 years in prison, or

  • A judicial fine.

If the insult is made against a public official, the penalty is increased (Article 125/3). Similarly, if it is made publicly, the court may apply sentence aggravation.

Can mutual insults cancel the crime?

Article 129 of the Turkish Penal Code states that if both parties insult each other, the court may reduce or waive the penalty depending on the circumstances.

What is the time limit for filing a complaint?

Since insult is a complaint-based offense, the victim must file a complaint within 6 months from the date they learn about the crime and the perpetrator. Delays may result in dismissal of the case.

Can calling someone “idiot” or “stupid” be a crime?

Yes, depending on the tone, intent, and setting. In Turkey, words like "idiot" or "moron" are generally considered degrading. Courts examine whether the statement was meant to humiliate or simply casual.

What evidence is valid in insult cases?

  • Voice or video recordings (legally obtained),

  • Social media screenshots,

  • Written messages (email, SMS, WhatsApp),

  • Witness statements.

Evidence obtained unlawfully (e.g., hidden recording in private setting) may be rejected. This is why legal guidance from a qualified Alanya lawyer is essential.

Legal procedure for insult complaints

  1. File a criminal complaint to the Public Prosecutor.

  2. Prosecutor initiates an investigation.

  3. If evidence is sufficient, the case goes to the Criminal Court of First Instance.

 

If you’re facing such a case, Üner Law Office in Alanya can help prepare your defense or represent your interests as a complainant.

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