Turkish police detained 47 people during raids on gay bars and the homes of LGBTQ+ activists across 12 provinces. The operations formed part of a government campaign called 'My Family is Safe' aimed at protecting family values. Human rights groups say the measures target the LGBTQ+ community.
What happened during the raids?
Police carried out the detentions over the weekend. Officials reported 26 people held in Istanbul, where officers seized drugs, digital equipment, smuggled alcohol and a firearm. The Ankara chief prosecutor's office said another 21 people were detained in an investigation linked to the LGBTQ+ association Kaos GL.
Which groups were targeted?
Kaos GL was one of the main targets. The organisation stated that 50 of its activists were detained, with more than 10 taken from their homes. It also reported that authorities blocked several websites and social media accounts linked to LGBTQ+ groups. The government accused Kaos GL of posting material deemed obscene and accessible to children, and demanded the closure of its X account along with accounts of around 15 other organisations.
What is the legal context in Turkey?
Same-sex relations are not criminalised in Turkey. Same-sex marriage is not recognised. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has publicly described LGBTQ people as 'perverts' and linked them to the country's falling birth rate. Homophobia remains widespread.
How does the government describe the operation?
Justice Minister Akin Gurlek said legal proceedings have begun against more than 160 people and several organisations and companies. He framed the action within the 'Decade of the Family' campaign. The government maintains the 'My Family is Safe' initiative protects traditional family structures.
What do critics say?
The Turkish Human Rights Association described the campaign as state-led discrimination and an effort to dismantle civil society. It said the real purpose is to spread fear and suppress LGBTQ+ organisations rather than safeguard families.
Frequently asked questions
How many people were detained?
Official statements report 47 detentions in total: 26 in Istanbul and 21 in Ankara. Kaos GL claims around 50 of its activists were held.
Are same-sex relations illegal in Turkey?
No. Same-sex relations are legal, though same-sex marriage is not recognised and public expression faces increasing restrictions.
Why were social media accounts blocked?
Authorities accused the accounts of posting content considered obscene and visible to children, prompting demands to shut them down.
Who is leading the 'My Family is Safe' campaign?
The Turkish government runs the campaign. Justice Minister Akin Gurlek has publicly linked it to broader efforts to defend family values.
Key takeaways
- 47 people were detained in raids across 12 provinces.
- Kaos GL reported 50 activists detained and multiple accounts blocked.
- The government says the operation protects family values.
- Human rights groups call it targeted discrimination against LGBTQ+ people.