Reaction from Istanbul Medical Chamber to Investigations: Right to Health is Threatened

The Istanbul Medical Chamber announced that targeting civil society organizations and specialty associations within the scope of the "My Family is Safe" investigations jeopardizes public health.

Investigations and Access Restrictions

The targeting of civil society organizations and professional associations within the scope of the recently conducted "My Family is Safe" investigations and operations has caused deep concern. It was reported that access restrictions were imposed on the social media accounts of some institutions during this process.

Status of Specialty Associations

While access restrictions were imposed on the social media accounts of the Sexual Education Treatment and Research Association during the operation process, an access ban was also requested for the X account of the Psychiatric Association of Turkey, which has more than seven thousand members. These institutions have duties to protect community mental health in their statutes.

Risk to Accessing Health Services

It was stated that presenting the diversity of sexual orientation and gender identity as a threat makes individuals targets. It was emphasized that the anxiety of discrimination and ill-treatment may cause LGBTI individuals to avoid applying to hospitals.

Public Health and Official Goals

Drawing attention to the fact that the pressures contradict the official goals of the Ministry of Health, it was recalled that the Turkey HIV/AIDS Control Program document committed to the principles of respecting human rights and equal access to diagnosis and treatment.