Story perspectives

Turkey launches raids detaining 162 LGBTQ+ activists nationwide

By Drooid · Sep 16, 2026, 2:44 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Akin Gürlek Targets LGBTQ

Justice Minister Akin Gürlek launched the “My Family Is Safe” raids detaining LGBTQ+ activists.
Prosecutors said the sweeps target 162 suspects, nine associations and 13 businesses in 15 provinces.
Kaos GL reports at least 50 of its members, including board officials, were detained.
Authorities blocked dozens of LGBTQ+ websites and social-media accounts, drawing criticism from Michael O’Flaherty and Nacho Sánchez Amor.

Summary

Turkey Fertility Falls

Turkey's fertility rate fell from 2.11 in 2013 to 1.51 in 2023.
Analysts attribute the decline to high inflation, soaring housing costs, and limited affordable childcare.
Workplace cultures and rising female education and employment also discourage early family formation.
President Erdogan’s ‘Decade of Family and Population’ plan aims to raise births without economic incentives.
Observers argue the LGBTQ crackdown distracts from these structural demographic challenges.

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Akin Gürlek Targets LGBTQ

Justice Minister Akin Gürlek launched the “My Family Is Safe” raids detaining LGBTQ+ activists.
Prosecutors said the sweeps target 162 suspects, nine associations and 13 businesses in 15 provinces.
Kaos GL reports at least 50 of its members, including board officials, were detained.
Authorities blocked dozens of LGBTQ+ websites and social-media accounts, drawing criticism from Michael O’Flaherty and Nacho Sánchez Amor.

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