Turkish police detain dozens in raids on gay bars and homes of LGBTQ+ activists
Key Highlights
- Dozens detained in raids on gay bars and LGBTQ+ activists' homes.
- Campaign 'My Family is Safe' targets LGBTQ+ community.
- Turkish Human Rights Association condemns the operation.
The Turkish government's campaign dubbed "My Family is Safe" has led to a series of raids on gay bars and the homes of LGBTQ+ activists, with officials claiming it aims to protect family values. The operation targeted several provinces over the weekend, resulting in the detention of 47 people.
According Istanbul Chief Prosecutors Office
According to the Istanbul chief prosecutor's office, officers seized drugs, digital equipment, smuggled alcohol, and a firearm during the raids. In addition, 21 people were detained as part of an investigation into Kaos GL, a prominent LGBTQ+ association.
The campaign, launched Human rights groups in Turkey have accused the government of using the campaign to suppress dissent and undermine civil society.
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Real Name This Operation Not
"The real name of this operation is not 'My Family is Safe'; it is state-led discrimination, politics of fear and the dismantling of civil society," said the Turkish Human Rights Association in a statement. The organization condemned the raids as part of a broader effort to silence LGBTQ+ voices.
Same-sex relations are not an offence in Turkey, but homophobia is common. President Erdogan has described LGBTQ people as "perverts" responsible for the falling birth rate. In recent years, the Turkish government has faced criticism for its handling of LGBTQ+ issues.
The Ankara chief prosecutor's office announced that legal proceedings have been started against more than 160 people and several organizations across the country. The Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gurlek stated that the raids were part of a broader effort to protect family values.
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"Decade of the Family" is a campaign launched Critics argue that it is being used as a pretext for suppressing dissent and targeting marginalized communities.
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