Law enforcement authorities in Turkey conducted coordinated raids across 12 provinces targeting gay establishments and residences of LGBTQ+ activists, resulting in the detention of 47 individuals, according to government officials. The operations, carried out over the weekend, were framed as part of a government initiative called “My Family is Safe,” which authorities characterized as intended to protect family values.
The Istanbul chief prosecutor’s office reported that officers detained 26 people during the raids and confiscated various items including drugs, digital equipment, smuggled alcohol, and a firearm. A separate investigation conducted by the Ankara chief prosecutor’s office resulted in 21 additional detentions related to Kaos GL, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights organization that was among the operation’s targets.
Kaos GL reported higher numbers, stating that approximately 50 activists were detained, with more than 10 taken into custody following police searches of private residences. The organization also indicated that authorities had moved to block multiple websites and social media accounts operated by LGBTQ+ groups. Prosecutors alleged that Kaos GL had posted obscene content accessible to minors and demanded the shutdown of the organization’s social media presence along with approximately 15 other LGBTQ+-related accounts.
Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek stated that legal proceedings have been initiated against more than 160 individuals and numerous organizations and companies nationwide as part of the broader campaign, which he connected to a “Decade of the Family” initiative. However, human rights organizations in Turkey have contested the government’s characterization of these operations. The Turkish Human Rights Association released a statement characterizing the campaign as “state-led discrimination” and “politics of fear” aimed at dismantling civil society rather than protecting families.
While same-sex relationships are not criminalized in Turkey, the country does not recognize same-sex marriage, and LGBTQ+ individuals face considerable social pressure and discrimination.
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