Joakim Medin's Trial in Turkey Set to Begin Amid Family Struggles
Joakim Medin's trial for terrorism charges will begin, highlighting challenges faced by his family.
- • Joakim Medin's trial begins on September 25, 2025.
- • He was previously imprisoned for 51 days on terrorism charges.
- • His family is coping with the emotional fallout from his ordeal.
- • Sweden's Foreign Ministry is monitoring the trial closely.
Key details
The trial of Swedish journalist Joakim Medin is scheduled to commence on September 25, 2025, in Turkey, where he faces severe terrorism charges related to his journalistic activities. Medin has been imprisoned previously for 51 days this year, and is accused of spreading terrorist propaganda and being a member of a terrorist organization, with potential penalties amounting to nine additional years in prison. Key evidence against him comprises articles he authored that address sensitive topics such as the implications of Turkey's anti-terror laws on Kurdish individuals and military operations against Kurds in Syria, alongside content from his 2016 book 'Kobane' which critically examines the PKK, deemed a terrorist group by Turkey.
Medin's plight is compounded by his family's struggles during and after his imprisonment. His wife, Sofie Axelsson Medin, endured the terrifying experience of his arrest while she was pregnant with their daughter, Esme. During his incarceration, Joakim faced harsh conditions and depended on fellow inmates for basic needs. Although he was released on May 16, 2023, under an 11-year conditional sentence, new charges have re-emerged, causing significant stress as the couple adjusts to life with their newborn and seeks psychological support to deal with the aftermath of their ordeal.
Concerns over the Swedish government's engagement in offering assistance have been echoed by Medin, who noted a lack of communication following his release. Nonetheless, the Swedish Foreign Ministry has indicated that they are monitoring the situation closely, and their consulate in Istanbul is set to attend the upcoming trial, emphasizing the importance of supporting their citizen during this turbulent period.