Turkish authorities conducted widespread raids targeting gay bars, nightclubs, LGBTQ association offices, and the residences of activists across several cities on Sunday. The operations were carried out under the banner of the government’s “My Family is Safe” campaign, according to Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç.
State media reported that at least 63 individuals were taken into custody during the sweep. Human rights organizations have strongly condemned the crackdown, viewing it as a direct assault on the LGBTQ community.
Another authoritarian move using tradition as an excuse. When will they realize this only fuels the community, not suppresses it?
My heart goes out to everyone detained. It is terrifying to be arrested simply for existing in a safe space.
Human rights groups have been warning about this for years. The international community needs to react stronger.
I heard rumors about these raids earlier this week. Is the arrest number going to rise further?
This is alarming. Targeting venues and homes under a family campaign feels like state-sponsored discrimination disguised as morality.