Research Expertise
With over 25 years of field experience, I specialize in deep, on-the-ground research across the Middle East, North Africa, the Horn of Africa, and West Africa. My work covers:
Political dynamics and governance
NGO activities and humanitarian issues
Irregular migration and refugee movements
Smuggling networks and illicit organizations
Social change and community resilience
Religious trends and interfaith relations
Whether navigating sensitive environments, verifying hard-to-access information, or connecting with trusted local sources, I bring the expertise, network, and cultural insight needed to deliver accurate and impactful results.
Contact Me
For assignments, collaborations, or media support: aksamemet at gmail.com
Some of my published articles
Turkish articles
My articles for Independent Turkish
https://www.indyturk.com/article-author/memet-aksakal
My articles for Serbestiyet
Memet Aksakal
Freelance Journalist, Fixer, and Researcher
Unfortunately, after changing my web hosting server, all the information on my website was deleted. I am currently rebuilding the site.
About Me
I’m a freelance journalist and researcher with more than two decades of experience covering Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and other parts of the Middle East. I have worked with major television networks and production companies from the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia on breaking news coverage, investigative reports, and documentaries focusing on the political, social, and cultural realities of the region.
Over the years I have also worked extensively as a fixer for international media for more than 25 years. While I am no longer working actively in that role, I can still assist visiting journalists and television crews with contacts, coordination, and practical guidance when needed.
Between 2011 and 2016, I was based on the Syrian border, reporting directly on the war and its humanitarian, political, and security consequences.
I am fluent in Kurdish, Turkish, English, German, and Persian, with working knowledge of Arabic. I produce original articles and video footage and have extensive experience supporting international media teams working in Turkey and the wider region.
Iran Conflict Reporting: Turkey Border Restrictions and Iraqi Kurdistan Access for Journalists
Turkey–Iran Border Reporting
The Turkish government does not allow Iranian citizens to enter Turkey, except for commercial truck drivers and those with special circumstances. Likewise, Turkish citizens are not allowed to enter Iran. Border crossings between Turkey and Iran are quite deserted, with no noticeable crowds.
As a result, there is very little newsworthy material available at the Turkey–Iran border for reporting on the ongoing war in Iran. Nevertheless, journalists who wish to report from this border must obtain temporary press accreditation from the Presidential Directorate of Communications. Detailed information is available here: https://www.iletisim.gov.tr/english/temporary-accreditation
Reporting from Iraqi Kurdistan
For journalists and television crews, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq provides a practical alternative for reporting. Although the airspace is currently closed, access to Iraqi Kurdistan is possible via Turkey by road, which is currently the main route of entry.
I am available to assist journalists and media teams traveling to the region with advice, local contacts, coordination, and practical guidance. Journalists and TV crews planning to cover the conflict from Iraqi Kurdistan are welcome to get in touch for further information and assistance.