The ongoing repression of LGBTQ+ individuals in Turkey has raised significant alarm among international bodies, notably the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). Their recent resolution calls for action to protect the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people and human rights defenders within the country.
Concerns Over Deteriorating Conditions
In an official resolution adopted on Thursday, PACE expressed deep concern regarding the worsening situation for LGBTQ+ communities in Turkey. The report, penned by British lawmaker Sam Rushworth, highlights various forms of repression, including significant limits on freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. Furthermore, it underscores the alarming trend of arrests and prosecutions targeting activists and advocates for human rights, which contributes to an environment of fear and oppression for these communities.
The resolution arrives amid a nationwide crackdown initiated on September 12, named “My Family Is Safe.” This operation has resulted in legal actions against 162 individuals, including nine associations and 13 businesses across 15 provinces. Disturbingly, it has led to the detention of at least 116 people, with 82 currently imprisoned pending trial. Rights organizations have been subjected to raids, and the Turkish government has moved to dissolve two prominent LGBTQ+ groups. Additionally, courts have blocked numerous social media accounts and initiated proceedings against others, highlighting the aggressive censorship plaguing online discourse.
Acknowledging Backsliding Democracy
PACE has deemed this crackdown as emblematic of Turkey’s increasing democratic backsliding. The assembly expressed its apprehension over the damaging narrative employed by authorities, which leverages the idea of “protecting the family” to justify actions against LGBTQ+ individuals and their advocates. Such rhetoric often creates a hostile environment, contributing to the stigmatization of not only LGBTQ+ individuals but also of those who champion their rights.
The assembly further raised alarms about restrictions on Pride parades and other peaceful assemblies, noting the prevalence of discriminatory language against LGBTQ+ individuals, including from public officials. Such hostile rhetoric exacerbates societal discrimination and incites further hostility toward these communities.
Calls for Immediate Action
In response, PACE has called upon Turkish authorities to halt all criminal and administrative measures that target LGBTQ+ individuals and their defenders. It insists that no legislation promoting discrimination against these communities should be adopted. More crucially, the assembly emphasizes the need for LGBTQ+ people to be able to exercise their fundamental rights without fear of retribution or persecution.
The resolution also demands the swift release of individuals detained for their human rights activism, sexual orientation, or gender identity. All charges related to the exercise of freedom of expression, assembly, and association should be dismissed. The assembly stressed the necessity of ensuring access to legal representation and protections against mistreatment for those in custody.
PACE’s call extends to lifting restrictions on websites, social media accounts, and bans on Pride events. Moreover, it urges public officials to avoid language that could incite hatred and discrimination, advocating for effective measures against hate speech and violence motivated by animosity.
The overarching message is clear: Turkey must align its laws and practices with its obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights and adhere to the principles established by the European Court of Human Rights. As the nation faces increasing scrutiny, the international community watches closely to see if meaningful actions will be taken to address these urgent human rights concerns.