Turkey detains dozens in crackdown on LGBTQ+ activists and journalists
Protesters teargassed as minister claims widespread raids and arrests under obscenity laws were to ‘protect families’
TL;DR
- Turkish police conducted simultaneous raids on LGBTQ+ rights organizations and HIV-advocacy groups in multiple cities.
- Authorities claim the operation, 'My Family is Safe,' aims to protect children, the family institution, and social order, citing concerns about declining birthrates and family ties.
- Accusations of obscenity, prostitution, and drug offenses were used to justify the raids, with officials seizing digital equipment, drugs, and a firearm.
- Journalists, including members of the Kaos GL organization and Tuğba Tekerek, were among those arrested.
- Protests against the crackdown were met with force, including tear gas and detentions of over 150 demonstrators.
- Rights groups condemn the crackdown, arguing that focusing on LGBTQ+ people distracts from serious issues like domestic violence and child abuse.
- Homosexuality is not illegal in Turkey, but authorities are increasingly using broad obscenity charges and targeting groups for violating NGO laws.