Turkish authorities have launched a wide-ranging operation against LGBTQ+ organizations and activists, with raids in several cities across the country and dozens of people detained. The operations, carried out as part of a campaign called "My Family is Safe," have been justified by authorities as a fight against illegal activities and the protection of families and children.
According to Turkish authorities, 26 people have been arrested, while searches have been carried out at the offices of six LGBTQ+ organizations. The Istanbul Prosecutor's Office announced that the operations extended to 12 provinces and that drugs, electronic devices, smuggled alcohol and a firearm were seized during the searches.
In a broader statement, Turkish Justice Minister Akın Gurlek said the investigative procedures cover a total of 162 suspects, nine organizations and 13 businesses in 15 provinces. According to him, the operations aim to protect children, the family and social order, in line with the government's policy declared as the "Decade of the Family".
Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ organization Kaos GL has given another tally, stating that at least 50 activists have been detained, including more than 10 people arrested during searches of their homes. The organization also said that its offices have been searched and that dozens of websites and social media accounts of LGBTQ+ organizations and activists have been blocked.
In Istanbul, the operations have also included checks on bars and venues frequented by the LGBTQ+ community, while authorities have also raided a nightclub considered a safe space for the community.
Human rights groups have condemned the operation, calling it part of a broader campaign of pressure on the LGBTQ+ community and civil society. The Human Rights Association in Turkey has accused the government of using the rhetoric of “protecting the family” to impose a single social model and crack down on independent organizations.
The operation takes place in a tense climate for LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey, where authorities have banned the Istanbul Pride Parade for years and have taken other restrictive measures against community organizations and activists.
