Full Breakdown
Turkish Police Conduct Nationwide Raids on LGBTQ Organizations
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Police Action and Detentions
Police swept gay bars, activist offices and homes in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Mersin, detaining dozens of individuals. State prosecutors reported that at least 63 people were held, while the Justice Ministry said the operation targeted 162 suspects, nine associations and 13 businesses. The LGBTQ rights group Kaos GL estimated that nearly 50 defenders were taken into custody or faced ongoing interrogations. Websites of the targeted groups were blocked in the days preceding the raids.
Background and Recent Context
The raids occurred under the “My Family is Safe” operation, which Justice Minister Akin Gurlek linked to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s “Decade of Family and Population” executive order aimed at addressing Turkey’s declining birthrate. The ruling AK Party has banned Istanbul Pride since 2015 and has repeatedly dispersed attempted Pride gatherings. Earlier this summer, an LGBTQ-focused cruise ship was denied docking permission in Turkey.
Official Statements & Responses
He framed the operation as a constitutional duty to shield families from criminal or abusive networks. Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty warned that references to “family values” cannot justify restrictions on human rights, calling for the release of all detained activists.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As per the duty to protect families and children given to the state by the constitution, no criminal organization, abuse network or illegal activity which targets children, youths or families will be tolerated!” — Akin Gurlek, justice minister