European Union Reacts to LGBTI+ Raids and Restrictions in Turkey
The European Commission has expressed concern over police operations targeting LGBTI+ activists in Turkey and access blocks imposed on social media accounts.
Police raids targeting LGBTI+ individuals and associations in Turkey, along with access restrictions on social media accounts, have met with a backlash in Brussels. The European Union reminded the Turkish government of its obligation to guarantee human rights.
Statement from the European Commission
European Commission spokesperson Christian Wigand stated that they are concerned about the recent detentions and legal processes initiated against LGBTI+ activists and human rights associations. Wigand emphasized that Turkey, as an EU candidate country, is obliged to guarantee respect for the human rights of all individuals.
Civil Society and Social Media Blocks
Wigand also expressed concern over the access blocks imposed on the social media accounts of Turkish LGBTI+ organizations and allegations regarding the funding of non-governmental organizations. Emma Sinclair-Webb, Human Rights Watch Turkey Director, said these moves are an indicator of the government's decision to treat LGBTI+ individuals as criminals.
Police Raids and Access Block Decisions
Police raids under the name "My Family is Safe" were carried out in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. On the day the raids took place, access blocks were imposed on 32 social media accounts, including university LGBTI+ communities. By order of the Bakırköy 4th Criminal Judgeship of Peace, access restrictions were also applied to numerous accounts and media organizations.