Turkish authorities launch crackdown on LGBTQ+ and HIV support groups
Summary
Turkish authorities conducted early morning raids on LGBTQ+ and HIV support groups in several major cities, detaining dozens of people and shutting down their offices and websites. The government said the actions aimed to protect children and families, while critics called it a political crackdown against LGBTQ+ rights.Key Facts
- Police raided LGBTQ+ groups and HIV awareness organizations in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Aydin, and Mersin.
- Dozens of members were detained during simultaneous early morning operations.
- Justice Minister Akin Gurlek said the raids targeted 162 suspects, 9 associations, and 13 businesses.
- The operation was justified as protecting children, families, and public order under a 10-year government plan.
- The government claimed some groups received significant international funding.
- The raids included blocking the organizations’ websites.
- Human Rights Association said the crackdown was political and aimed to enforce a single family model, not a genuine investigation.
- The ruling party has increasingly opposed LGBTQ+ events; since 2015, Istanbul Pride has been banned and disrupted by authorities.
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