Social Media Activity Recognized as Digital Evidence in Divorce Cases
Signals Shift in Future Divorce Litigation Standards
Online Community Divided Over Court Ruling
A Turkish court has ruled that a husband's repeated "likes" on other women's social media posts constitute grounds for divorce, sparking debate online. On December 23, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) in Hong Kong reported that a Turkish court recently delivered such a verdict, recognizing the husband's fault in a divorce case.
A woman, referred to as Ms. A, residing in the central region of Kayseri, Turkey, filed for divorce from her husband, Mr. B. Ms. A claimed that her husband had continuously engaged in verbal abuse during their marriage, failed to fulfill his financial responsibilities, and frequently "liked" and commented on photos of other women on social media. She particularly emphasized that he had liked many provocative posts, arguing that such behavior violated the duty of fidelity required during marriage, and sought divorce along with alimony and compensation.
Mr. B, the husband, completely denied the allegations. He countered that his wife had insulted his father and displayed excessive jealousy, claiming that his reputation had been damaged and filing a countersuit. However, the court determined that the husband bore greater responsibility for the breakdown of the marriage. The court ordered him to pay 750 lira (about 26,000 won) per month in child support and 80,000 lira (about 2.8 million won) in compensation. The husband appealed, arguing that the amount was excessive, but the higher court also dismissed his appeal.
The judge stated, "Even seemingly harmless online interactions can cause emotional distress to a spouse and disrupt the balance of a marital relationship," adding, "Such actions can be regarded as factors that undermine marital trust."
Regarding this ruling, a Turkish lawyer explained in an interview with local media, "This case clarifies that digital traces such as 'likes,' comments, and messages on social media can be recognized as important evidence in divorce proceedings," and added, "From now on, records of online community and social media activities will be more actively used to determine each party's responsibility." He further emphasized, "Citizens need to be aware that social media use can lead to legal disputes."
Reactions from internet users were divided after the ruling became public. Some pointed out, "If a relationship collapses over a single 'like,' the marriage was never strong to begin with." On the other hand, others argued, "If all online activity is interpreted as infidelity, people will have to live under constant surveillance and anxiety," and insisted, "Social media should remain a space for free expression." There were also suggestions that an "anonymous like" function is needed. Experts predicted that this ruling is likely to spark social debate about the boundaries of trust and private behavior between spouses in the digital age.
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