10/03/2025 | Writer: Kaos GL
In its response, the municipality said that social services are provided regardless of gender and orientation. It stated that the staff fulfil their profession within the framework of universal human rights.
Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality responded to the request for information made by Kaos GL Association. In its response to Kaos GL's request for information, the municipality stated that the municipality's social services, health services and employment support are provided regardless of gender and orientation:
‘The planned services are provided to citizens residing in Istanbul who are in need of socio-economic support, regardless of gender and orientation, regardless of any class.’
The municipality responded to the question of whether there is a complaint mechanism for discrimination faced by LGBTI+ persons in accessing local services as follows:
"During the services carried out by the Social Services Branch Directorate, if the applicant thinks that he/she has been subjected to any discriminatory behaviour, he/she can file a complaint to the ALO 153 Solution Centre. This record is examined by the directorate and if deemed necessary, the necessary disciplinary process is carried out."
At the same time, the municipality also said that the personnel carry out their jobs with an understanding that embraces universal human rights, uses inclusive language, fulfils their advocacy role and develops sensitivity towards disadvantaged groups.
Kaos GL's questions to Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality
1. Does your municipality carry out any special services, projects or programmes to increase LGBTI+ citizens' access to social services, health services or employment support? If there are such studies, can you share the details?
2. Does your municipality have a special complaint mechanism or intervention policy to prevent discrimination faced by LGBTI+ citizens in accessing local services? Is the staff trained?
3. Are there any measures taken to encourage LGBTI+ poor to benefit from the social assistance (food, cash assistance, fuel support, etc.) provided by your municipality? Can you share detailed data on these supports?
Tags: human rights
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