03/06/2025 | Writer: Kaos GL
Speaking at the 3rd International Family Symposium, Göktaş targeted LGBTI+ individuals using the term “degenderization” saying: “We will develop efforts against the risks that threaten the family structure.”
Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş spoke at the opening of the 3rd International Family Symposium, organized by the Istanbul Family Foundation, one of the supporters of anti-LGBTI+ hate marches, under the theme “Being a Family in the 21st Century.”
Göktaş added yet another instance to her record of anti-LGBTI+ rhetoric. In her speech, she targeted LGBTI+ people using the term “degenderization.” Once again claiming that the family is under threat, Göktaş said: “Degenderization, individualization, the weakening of social bonds under the influence of digitalization, and the transformation of the family structure are no longer merely individual matters. They are issues concerning the future of our country.”
Göktaş linked her speech to fertility rates and continued as follows:
“We are a country proud of its young and dynamic population. However, in recent years, there has been a significant decline in the proportion of young people both globally and in our country. We are also seeing a similar drop in birth rates. Our fertility rate has fallen to 1,48, the lowest level in the country’s history. This figure is well below the population replacement level of 2,1. This situation affects everything, from economic growth to social structure, from production to healthcare.”
The declaration prepared at the International Family Forum will be brought to the UN agenda
In her speech, Göktaş referred to last week’s International Family Forum and claimed that Turkey has become a model country on the international stage. She stated that they prepared a declaration and will work to bring it to the UN agenda:
“With this vision, we held the International Family Forum last week. Our aim was to establish a common stance not only within our country but also at the international level on protecting the institution of the family and its values. Together with high-level participants from 26 countries, we discussed solution proposals to strengthen the family against rising global threats. At the end of the forum, we signed a declaration. In the coming stages, we will work to bring this declaration to the UN agenda.”
“We will lead a global mobilization”
Göktaş also reminded that the 2026-2035 period was declared the Decade of the Family by President and AKP Chair Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and said:
“Throughout this decade, we will work to strengthen our demographic resilience and enhance intergenerational solidarity. We will develop joint efforts against the risks threatening the family structure. We will lead a comprehensive global mobilization for the reconstruction of family values.”
Tags: human rights, women, life, family
