21/05/2024 | Writer: Kaos GL
The latest episode of the School of Human Rights’ program 404 broadcasted under the title “LGBTI+ Rights in Turkey,” featuring Human Rights Expert Defne Güzel from the Kaos GL Association as the guest.
In the program broadcasted on May 17, the day commemorating the removal of homosexuality from the “International Classification of Diseases” by the World Health Organization, the discussion revolved around the rights violations experienced by LGBTI+community in Turkey. Topics covered included the incidents on Bayram Street and Bornova Street, issues of profound poverty and housing crises, government-led hate speech, and constitutional debates regarding the rights of LGBTI+ community.
Güzel highlighted the institutionalization of anti-LGBTI+ sentiments:
“Day by day, we witness the institutionalization of anti-LGBTI+ and hate policies, shaping into a state-level agenda. An alarming example emerged during the aftermath of the earthquake. The period following the February 6 earthquakes saw politicians exploiting hate speech against LGBTI+ community as election propaganda. This included promises to enact bans on LGBTI+ propaganda and even threats to close LGBTI+ organizations. Meanwhile, amidst these political maneuvers, LGBTI+s affected by the earthquake struggled to find basic shelter, let alone support.”
Highlighting the escalating targeting of LGBTI+ community, Güzel remarked, “Presently, we’re witnessing heightened targeting of activists. Not only are human rights defenders in the crosshairs, but so too are LGBTI+ associations. Even those who express support for LGBTI+ causes, including artists, face repercussions such as cancelled concerts. These actions serve as de facto punishment, akin to the implementation of punitive policies. Disturbingly, we observe allocations within the Action Plan of the Presidency of Religious Affairs aimed at combatting LGBTI+ community.”
Tags: human rights, media
