Erdogan's Turkey cracks down on LGBT community in name of preserving family values
Turkish authorities have intensified a crackdown on the LGBT community, raiding gay bars and shutting down activist organizations, citing the need to protect family values.
The story so far
- Sep 13
- Sep 14
- Sep 17
How outlets cover it
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Open questions and key claims
Justice Minister Akin Gurlek stated that an investigation was launched into 162 suspects, nine associations, and 13 businesses.
The operations align with President Erdogan's 'Decade of Family and Population' executive order.
Turkey's justice minister stated the operation was intended to 'protect our children, the institution of the family and the social order'.
Human Rights Watch described the events as 'the widest crackdown on LGBTQ+ people in recent years'.
Turkey’s Minister of Justice, Akın Gürlek, stated efforts are underway to protect the family, children, and youth from exploitation, obscenity, crime, and harmful content.
Amnesty International described the actions as an 'appalling escalation' and a 'full-scale assault on LGBTI rights'.
Turkish authorities have arrested and detained some 116 people across 15 provinces in actions against LGBT rights organizations and activists.
Turkish police conducted nationwide raids targeting LGBTQ organisations, detaining at least 63 people.
Who and where
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