Google algorithm changes force closure of Turkish outlet Gazete Duvar
Turkish independent news outlet Gazete Duvar ceased publication on 12 March 2025, with its owner and editor citing Google's algorithm changes and new applications as causing severe revenue losses that made operations unsustainable amid Turkey's economic challenges.
What happened
Gazete Duvar, an independent Turkish news outlet founded on 8 August 2016, announced on 12 March 2025 that it was ceasing publication. Owner Vedat Zencir and Editor-in-Chief Barış Avşar cited in their farewell statements that Google's algorithm changes and new applications had caused severe successive revenue losses.
Avşar stated that Google's new algorithmic practices had 'openly sabotaged' internet media outlets including Gazete Duvar, preventing their continued operation and obstructing the public's right to information. Zencir noted that the revenue losses triggered by Google's algorithm changes, combined with Turkish inflation and rising operational costs, made the outlet economically unsustainable.
Reported impact
The closure deprived readers of access to the independent news outlet's journalism. The outlet's staff, comprising journalists, writers and academics, were affected by the decision to cease operations.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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