Turkish authorities launch crackdown on LGBTQ+ and HIV support groups

Turkish authorities arrested at least 31 people and detained 126 protesters on September 15 as part of a government operation targeting LGBTQ+ groups. The arrests included five transgender women in Ankara and 26 individuals in Mersin, while protests occurred in Istanbul and Ankara against recent raids and detentions. Turkish officials claim the operation aims to protect children and family values but critics argue…

Turkish authorities detained 26 people and conducted searches of six LGBTQ+ association offices during raids over the weekend. Prosecutors stated that drugs, digital equipment, smuggled alcohol, and a firearm were seized in these operations spanning 12 provinces. The government calls this crackdown part of their “My Family is Safe” campaign to protect family values and combat falling birth rates, while rights groups…

Turkish authorities conducted simultaneous raids early Sunday morning across several cities including Istanbul and Ankara against multiple 2SLGBTQ+ groups and HIV support organizations. Dozens were detained, association offices were raided, and websites blocked. Justice Minister Akin Gürlek justified the actions as necessary to protect children and families, citing President Erdogan’s executive order. Critics like…

Turkish authorities conducted raids targeting LGBTQ+ activists and organizations over the weekend, leading to arrests and the blocking of social media accounts. These actions have been condemned both domestically and internationally, including from Brussels. President Erdogan justified the operations as part of a national strategy called the "Decade of Family and Population," aimed at addressing Turkey’s declining…

Turkish authorities conducted raids on LGBTQ+ organizations, HIV-advocacy groups, nightclubs, and homes of activists across Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, Aydın, and Mersin. More than 100 people were detained with at least 62 held in custody, including journalists from Kaos GL, an LGBTQ+ news site. The raids began on Sunday under the operation "My Family is Safe," purportedly aimed at protecting children and social order…