Turkey cracks down on LGBTQ+ groups, blocks online accounts

Turkey launched a sweeping operation targeting LGBTQ+ associations, businesses and individuals over allegations including prostitution and obscene content, while a court separately ordered dozens of LGBTQ+-linked websites and social-media accounts to be blocked.

The operation, dubbed “My Family Is Safe,” targeted 162 suspects, nine associations and 13 businesses across 15 provinces including Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir, Justice Minister Akin Gurlek said in a post on X. Anadolu Agency reported that 26 suspects were detained.

As well as conducting investigations into alleged prostitution and obscene content, Gurlek said authorities had seized drugs and digital materials. He said some associations were found to have received significant funding from overseas. According to Anadolu, prosecutors said they obtained evidence that minors were being directed on issues of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Turkish officials have put increasing pressure on LGBTQ+ communities in recent years, banning Pride events and shutting down advocacy groups. In July, Turkey and Egypt blocked a cruise ship carrying more than 1,900 LGBTQ+ tourists from entering their ports, with the former citing a supposed threat to Turkish society.

Separately, websites and social-media accounts associated with 73 LGBTQ+ organizations were blocked under a Sept. 12 court order. The court cited protecting public order and preventing crime for the shutdowns.

“We will not tolerate any criminal organization, abuse network or illegal activity targeting our young people and families,” Gurlek said.