On Tuesday, police arrested dozens of protesters who had gathered in front of the Caglayan Court in Istanbul. These protesters were demonstrating to demand the release of LGBTQ+ activists who had been detained during a widespread crackdown a few days earlier.
Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Activists
On Sunday, Turkish authorities carried out a crackdown on several LGBTQ+ groups and individuals, detaining dozens. This operation included raids on association offices and popular gathering spots. Additionally, the websites of these organizations were blocked.
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Turkey's Minister of Justice, Bekir Bozdağ, announced that this crackdown was carried out to "protect children, the institution of family, and public order." He stated that this operation, named "My Family is Safe," targeted 162 suspects, nine associations, and 13 businesses.
International Concerns and Reactions
Meanwhile, Michael O'Flaherty, the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe based in Strasbourg, expressed concern on Tuesday about these raids and arrests, stating: "Referencing 'family values' or 'protecting children' cannot be used as a legal justification for human rights restrictions."
He also urged Turkish authorities to release anyone detained for human rights activities or work in civil society, adding that he would continue to monitor the situation.
Protesters carried placards reading: "Being LGBT+ and organizing is not a crime" and chanted slogans in support of LGBTQ+ rights as police intervened.
Ms. Aslan, a 36-year-old protester, stated: "We are in a time when efforts are being made to portray LGBTQ+ individuals as the cause of every problem in this society."
The ruling party in Turkey, led by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, which has roots in Turkey's Islamic movement, has increasingly taken a stance against LGBTQ+ groups. In 2015, this party banned the Istanbul Pride Festival, which had previously been attended by tens of thousands. Since then, authorities have severely suppressed any attempts to hold Pride festivals.
This summer, an LGBTQ+ cruise ship that had previously docked in Turkey multiple times was denied entry into the country.
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Source: abcnews.com
