Turkish police detain dozens in raids on gay bars and homes of LGBTQ+ activists
Seven UN specialists have called on Türkiye to stop the harassment of LGBTI persons and end the criminalization of rights defenders. In Istanbul, a court extended the detention of nine activists held at Metris T-Type Prison. DEM Party deputy Özgül Saki visited the detainees and stated there is no reason for them to remain in custody. These arrests are part of the My Family is Safe operation, which has seen over 160 people face investigation and 83 enter pre-trial detention since September.
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- ✓ The My Family is Safe operations began on September 12.
- ✓ Seven UN specialists declared that Türkiye must end LGBTI harassment.
- ✓ A court extended the detention of nine LGBTI+ individuals in Istanbul.
What changed
UN specialists formally demanded an end to the harassment while a DEM Party deputy reported on the continued detention of nine activists in Istanbul.
Live updates
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UN Experts and DEM Party Deputy Condemn Turkish LGBTQ+ Crackdown
Seven UN specialists have called on Türkiye to stop the harassment of LGBTI persons and end the criminalization of rights defenders. In Istanbul, a court extended the detention of nine activists held at Metris T-Type Prison. DEM Party deputy Özgül Saki visited the detainees and stated there is no reason for them to remain in custody. These arrests are part of the My Family is Safe operation, which has seen over 160 people face investigation and 83 enter pre-trial detention since September.
Why it matters
The Turkish government launched the My Family is Safe operation on September 12. The raids target gay bars and the homes of activists, sparking concerns from the EU regarding Turkey's accession bid. International bodies argue that advocacy and public speech should not lead to arrest or stigma.
What is confirmed
- The My Family is Safe operations began on September 12.
- Seven UN specialists declared that Türkiye must end LGBTI harassment.
- A court extended the detention of nine LGBTI+ individuals in Istanbul.
Still unconfirmed
- Prison conditions for the detained activists have improved since the start of their incarceration.
- There is no legal reason for the activists to remain in detention.
What to watch next
- The results of the next monthly detention review for the Istanbul activists.
- Official response from the Turkish government to the UN specialists' demands.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (3)
- 76crimes.com — UN human rights experts blast Turkiye for anti-LGBTI arrests
- www.devdiscourse.com — UN Experts Urge Türkiye to End Crackdown on LGBTI Rights ...
- bianet.org — DEM Party deputy visits jailed LGBTI+ activists in İstanbul
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Turkey's anti-LGBTQ+ crackdown sparks UN concern, EU criticism
Turkish police have detained dozens in raids on gay bars and homes of LGBTQ+ activists, part of an ongoing operation called 'My Family is Safe'. At least 83 individuals are in pre-trial detention and over 160 face investigation. The crackdown has drawn international condemnation, with UN experts urging Turkey to end the operation and release detainees. The EU has also expressed concern, citing the impact on Turkey's EU accession bid.
Why it matters
The operation targets LGBTQ+ individuals, venues, and advocacy groups, and has resulted in reports of strip searches, humiliation, and isolation of detainees. Turkey's LGBTQ+ community has faced increasing repression over the past decade, with Pride marches banned in Istanbul since 2015. The country's EU accession bid has stalled amid concerns over human rights and media freedom.
What is confirmed
- At least 83 individuals are in pre-trial detention
- Over 160 people face criminal investigation
- Turkey's ministry describes the operation as protecting children and families
- EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos cited LGBTQ+ rights as a concern in Turkey's EU accession bid
Still unconfirmed
- Detainees, including trans women, have experienced strip searches, humiliation, and isolation in custody
What to watch next
- Releases of detainees and outcome of investigations
- Turkey's response to international criticism
- Impact on Turkey's EU accession bid
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (3)
- www.theamargi.com — Turkey’s anti-LGBTQ+ crackdown was built over more than a decade
- www.fridae.asia — UN experts urge Türkiye to end operation targeting LGBTI ...
- policypress.cy — EU’s Kos says media and LGBTQ+ rights widen Turkey’s EU gap
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Turkish Crackdown Targets LGBTQ+ Community
Turkish authorities have detained at least 116 people across 15 provinces during an ongoing state operation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, venues, and advocacy groups. The sweep, designated under the name Operation My Family is Safe, has resulted in pre-trial detention for at least 83 individuals, while more than 160 face criminal investigation. Police have also arrested demonstrators gathering outside an Istanbul courthouse to demand the release of those detained. Credible reports indicate that detainees, including a number of trans women, have experienced strip searches, humiliation, and isolation in custody.
Why it matters
The operation represents an escalation of a decades-long pattern of state pressure against local support structures and advocacy networks in Turkey. United Nations experts have publicly condemned the state actions, joining international organizations in demanding an end to the detentions and harassment. House Democrats have previously urged the United States government to confront Ankara regarding the broader campaign.
What is confirmed
- The Turkish authorities launched Operation My Family is Safe on 12 September 2026.
- Police have arrested at least 116 people across 15 provinces since the sweep began.
- At least 83 individuals are being held in pre-trial detention, and more than 160 face criminal investigation.
- A number of those detained are trans women, and there are credible reports of strip searches, humiliation and isolation in custody.
- Police detained additional individuals who gathered outside the Istanbul courthouse to demand the release of those arrested.
What to watch next
- Decisions by international bodies or foreign governments to confront Ankara over the mass arrests
- Developments regarding the criminal investigations and potential trials for the more than 160 individuals facing charges
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (5)
- www.europesays.com — Urgent Action: Release Türkiye's detained LGBTI rights ...
- portsmouth.web.ucu.org.uk — UCU condemns Turkish state crackdown on LGBTQ+ people and ...
- amnesty.ca — Türkiye: Release detained LGBTI rights defenders
- www.thenation.com — Turkey Is Brutally Oppressing Queer People. Here’s What You ...
- www.straitstimes.com — UN experts slam Turkey’s LGBTQ crackdown | The Straits Times
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Turkish Police Detain Dozens in Raids on LGBTQ+ Activists
Turkish authorities have intensified a sweeping crackdown against the LGBTQ community through coordinated raids, arrests, and the closure of news outlets accused of spreading LGBT propaganda. Police have targeted organizations, HIV support groups, and activists by jailing individuals for running community advocacy networks. House Democrats have urged the United States government to confront Ankara regarding this escalating campaign. Meanwhile, international organizations like Amnesty International have characterized the state actions as a severe rights crisis amid growing global concern over the dismantling of local support structures.
Why it matters
Turkey is a secular state with a Muslim-majority population of over 86 million people, centered around the capital of Ankara and the economic hub of Istanbul. The nation operates under Article 66 of its Constitution, which defines citizenship while state institutions execute domestic policies. The ongoing pressure on local support networks highlights escalating domestic tensions regarding civil liberties and international human rights standards.
What is confirmed
- Turkey is home to over 86 million people with a Muslim-majority population.
- Ankara serves as the capital and second-largest city of Turkey.
What to watch next
- Further official statements from international organizations regarding the state actions
- Potential diplomatic responses from the United States government following House Democrats requests
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (7)
- www.duolingo.com — Duolingo
- en.wikipedia.org — Turkish language - Wikipedia
- en.wikipedia.org — Turkey - Wikipedia
- en.wikipedia.org — Turkish people - Wikipedia
- en.wikipedia.org — Turkish Airlines - Wikipedia
- learnturkish.org — Learn Turkish for Free and Become Fluent | Official Turkish...
- www.fluentin3months.com — How to Learn Turkish: A Practical Beginner’s Guide
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Turkey Widens Crackdown on LGBTQ Community with Arrests and Censorship
Turkish authorities are intensifying a sweeping crackdown against the LGBTQ community through coordinated raids, arrests, and the closure of news outlets accused of spreading LGBT propaganda. Police have targeted organizations, HIV support groups, and activists by jailing individuals for running community advocacy networks. House Democrats have urged the United States government to confront Ankara regarding this escalating campaign. Meanwhile, international organizations like Amnesty International have characterized the state actions as a severe rights crisis amid growing global concern over the dismantling of local support structures.
Why it matters
The current campaign represents a strategic shift from blocking public demonstrations to dismantling the organizational infrastructure that provides advocacy, legal assistance, and health information services to the LGBTQ community. The September operation titled My Family Is Safe marked a turning point in state repression. Lawmakers and international rights groups are pressing for diplomatic intervention as domestic censorship widens to include media outlets and social media channels.
What is confirmed
- Turkey is carrying out an alarming campaign of repression against the LGBTQ community, including raids and arrests.
- Police raided homes overnight and jailed people for running LGBT+ organizations, treating legal work as a crime.
- More than 60 House Democrats urged the Trump-Vance administration to confront the Turkish government regarding its escalating campaign.
- Amnesty International characterized the actions as part of a severe rights crisis.
Still unconfirmed
- The world is mostly ignoring the massive crackdown against gays in Turkey.
What to watch next
- Any formal diplomatic response or action from the United States administration following the House Democrats' appeal.
- Further legal developments or charges filed against detained activists and operators of jailed LGBT+ organizations.
- Additional censorship measures or blockades targeting domestic and international news outlets in Turkiye.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (5)
- creators.yahoo.com — Turkey is engaged in a massive crackdown against gays. The world is mostly ignoring it. - Yahoo Creators
- action.allout.org — Türkiye: Free the jailed LGBT+ activists | All Out
- www.balcanicaucaso.org — LGBT+ crackdown and brutal repression in Turkey - OBCT
- 76crimes.com — Turkiye blocks news outlets and social media in widening anti ...
- jewishinsider.com — House Democrats urge Rubio to respond to Turkey’s crackdown ...
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House Democrats Press White House Over Turkey Anti-LGBTQ Crackdown
More than 60 House Democrats urged the Trump-Vance administration on Thursday to confront the Turkish government regarding its escalating campaign against LGBTQ groups and activists. This diplomatic push follows coordinated police raids across five provinces that resulted in more than 100 detentions targeting LGBTQ organizations, HIV support groups, and activists, alongside an additional 150 arrests during an Istanbul protest on Tuesday, 15 September. Amnesty International has characterized the actions as part of a severe rights crisis, highlighting ongoing international pressure against the sweeping domestic operation.
Why it matters
The Turkish government operation, named My Family is Safe, has drawn sharp condemnation from human rights monitors over allegations of physical mistreatment, severe police force including tear gas, and financial blocks on human rights group accounts. International scrutiny has intensified as U.S. lawmakers step in to demand a direct diplomatic response from the White House. The ongoing crackdown represents a significant escalation in state repression targeting vulnerable communities and civil society organizations in Turkey.
What is confirmed
- More than 60 House Democrats called upon the Trump-Vance administration on Thursday to confront the Turkish government over its anti-LGBTQ crackdown.
- Türkiye's crackdown on LGBTI groups and activists is part of an escalating rights crisis, according to Amnesty International.
What to watch next
- Response from the White House or the Trump-Vance administration to the House Democrats' letter
- Further diplomatic statements or actions from international governments regarding the raids
- Updates from human rights monitors on the detained activists and individuals
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.amnesty.org.au — Türkiye’s crackdown on LGBTI groups and activists is part of ...
- www.washingtonblade.com — House Democrats urge White House to confront Turkish government over anti-LGBTQ crackdown - Washington Bl....
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Turkish Police Detain Dozens in Raids on LGBTQ+ Activists
Turkish authorities have detained more than 100 individuals in coordinated raids across five provinces targeting LGBTQI+ organizations, HIV support groups, and activists. An additional 150 pro-LGBTQ protesters were taken into custody by police in Istanbul during a demonstration on Tuesday, 15 September. The widespread crackdown is part of an operation named My Family is Safe. Human rights monitors report allegations of mistreatment during detentions, the blocking of human rights groups accounts, and the extreme use of police force, including tear gas deployed against peaceful demonstrators.
Why it matters
The mass detentions follow government reports linking declining birth rates to different sexual orientations, escalating pressure on the nation's civil society. Human rights organizations have condemned the coordinated attacks and raised serious concerns regarding the safety of the community. International bodies face growing pressure to respond to the deteriorating rights situation in Türkiye.
What is confirmed
- Turkish police detained at least 150 pro-LGBTQ protesters in Istanbul on Tuesday, 15 September.
- Turkish authorities launched an operation named My Family is Safe, targeting the LGBTQ+ community.
- Over 100 detentions resulted from a coordinated wave of raids targeting LGBTQI+ organizations and activists across five provinces.
Still unconfirmed
- The government linked reports associating declining birth rates with different sexual orientations to justify targeting the LGBTQ+ community.
What to watch next
- Responses from international bodies to the deteriorating rights situation in Türkiye
- Further actions by human rights organizations regarding the safety of detained activists
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- humedia.org — Turkey Raids Detain LGBTQI+ & HIV Advocates in 5 Provinces
- www.africanews.com — At least 150 pro-LGBTQ protesters detained in Istanbul crackdown
- protectdefenders.eu — Terrifying coordinated attack on LGBTQI+ civil society
- www.humanrightsresearch.org — Turkish Authorities Launch “My Family is Safe” Operation, Targeting LGBTQ+ Community
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Turkish Police Expand Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Community and Activists
Turkish authorities have detained over 100 individuals across 15 provinces in an escalating crackdown targeting LGBTQ+ organizations, HIV support groups, and venues. Police operations have resulted in dozens of arrests and pretrial detentions under what officials describe as an obscenity investigation. Human rights defenders and journalists, including Tugba Tekerek, have also been targeted amid widespread restrictions on social media accounts and websites. Amnesty International and other human rights organizations report allegations of mistreatment during detentions, while international bodies face calls to respond to the deteriorating rights situation.
Why it matters
The nationwide operation represents a sharp escalation in state pressure against civil society groups in Turkey, building on previous efforts to shutter associations and block digital platforms. Human rights advocates note that the current wave of arrests impacts long-standing community networks and support systems. In response to the detentions and travel advisories issued by foreign governments, activists have staged protests in cities such as Istanbul and Izmir.
What is confirmed
- Turkish authorities detained at least 116 individuals in nationwide raids targeting the LGBTI+ community across 15 provinces.
- At least 83 people have been placed in pretrial detention following the police operations.
- Journalist Tugba Tekerek was imprisoned over an article she wrote two years ago regarding LGBTQ+ people in Georgia.
- Hundreds of social media accounts and websites belonging to activists, organizations, and media outlets have been blocked or restricted.
Still unconfirmed
- LGBTI rights organizations have reported allegations of intrusive strip searches, insults, humiliation, and human rights defenders being held in isolation.
What to watch next
- Decisions by international bodies regarding potential responses, such as demands to suspend European Union accession.
- Further legal proceedings and trial dates for detained activists, protesters, and journalists.
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (8)
- cvindependent.com — Counting the Days Until AI Kills Us All (and We’re Not Entirely Joking)–Coachella Valley Independent’s Indy Digest: Sept. 17, 2026
- www.gaytimes.com — Turkey’s LGBTQIA+ crackdown: Everything you need to know
- 76crimes.com — Turkey’s anti-LGBT crackdown expands; activists fight back
- www.tcnjsignalnews.com — Turkey’s LGBTQ+ community under fire as protestors face ...
- www.channeldraw.org — Tugba Tekerek: a journalist jailed as Turkey expands its ...
- www.europesays.com — Türkiye’s crackdown on LGBTI groups and activists is part of ...
- humedia.org — Turkey Detains Over 240 in Crackdown Targeting LGBTI+ ...
- calgaryjournal.ca — Advocates warn newcomers to Canada about Turkish crackdown on ...
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Turkey expands LGBTQ+ crackdown with 162 arrests across 15 provinces
Turkish police arrested 162 people in nationwide raids targeting gay bars, HIV organizations, and LGBTQ+ groups. Authorities justify these actions as a means of protecting "family values." The crackdown has expanded to 15 provinces and includes the detention of 126 protesters. Members of the Kaos GL organization are currently jailed pending trial while other organizations face nationwide investigations. This follows previous efforts to shut down associations in Mersin and the blocking of numerous social media accounts and websites.
Why it matters
The campaign targets both physical venues and digital presence to limit LGBTQ+ visibility and organization. It marks a shift from local provincial actions to a coordinated national operation.
What is confirmed
- Turkish police arrested 162 people in raids targeting gay bars and LGBTQ+ or HIV organizations.
- Police conducted operations across 15 provinces.
- Authorities detained 126 protesters during the crackdown.
Still unconfirmed
- Members of Kaos GL are jailed pending trial.
- Organizations are facing nationwide investigations.
What to watch next
- Court rulings on the pretrial detention of Kaos GL members
- Official government statements regarding the legal basis for the "family values" justification
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- news.ssbcrack.com — Dozens Arrested in Turkey Amid Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Activists and Protests
- www.metroweekly.com — Turkey Arrests 162 in Nationwide Anti-LGBTQ Raids
- gayexpress.co.nz — Turkey Detains More Than 100 Protesters As LGBTQ+ Crackdown Intensifies
- www.gaydio.co.uk — The top 5 queerest moments in Big Brother UK history
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Turkey expands LGBTQ+ crackdown with group closures and more detentions
Turkish authorities are moving to shut down two LGBTQ+ rights associations in Mersin province, including the Muamma LGBTİ+ Education, Research and Solidarity group. This expansion of the crackdown includes the blocking of 14 websites and 186 personal social media accounts. At least 62 people are now in pretrial detention. In Istanbul, police detained dozens of demonstrators protesting these actions outside a courthouse. These measures follow a series of raids on gay bars, homes, and HIV support groups across five cities.
Why it matters
The state is targeting advocacy networks and business spaces through an operation called My Family is Safe. This coordinated effort combines physical arrests with digital censorship to dismantle LGBTQ+ community infrastructure.
What is confirmed
- Turkish authorities began proceedings to close two LGBTQ rights associations in Mersin province.
- The government blocked 14 websites and 186 personal social media accounts.
- At least 62 people are in pretrial detention.
Still unconfirmed
- Police detained dozens of demonstrators outside an Istanbul courthouse.
What to watch next
- Court rulings on the closure of the Muamma LGBTİ+ group
- Updates on the legal status of the 62 detainees
- Further digital blocks on LGBTQ+ advocacy websites
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.newsday.com — Police detain dozens at an Istanbul courthouse protest over LGBTQ+ crackdown
- www.turkishminute.com — Turkey moves to close 2 LGBTQ rights groups as nationwide jailings reach at least 62
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Turkish police arrest 162 in sweeping LGBTQ+ crackdown
Turkish authorities detained 162 people over the weekend during wide-ranging raids targeting LGBTQ+ activists, gay bars, and HIV support groups. The operations, conducted in five cities under the name My Family is Safe, included searches of private homes and a men's bathhouse. In addition to the physical arrests, the government has blocked online accounts associated with LGBTQ+ groups. These actions represent a coordinated effort by the state to dismantle advocacy networks and business spaces catering to the LGBTQ+ community.
Why it matters
Critics suggest President Erdogan is intensifying anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric to secure conservative support ahead of upcoming elections. This crackdown targets both social spaces and health-focused support organizations.
What is confirmed
- Turkish police conducted raids on gay bars and the homes of LGBTQ+ activists.
- Authorities detained dozens of people during the operations.
- The crackdown targeted LGBTQ+ and HIV support groups.
- The government blocked online accounts belonging to LGBTQ+ groups.
Still unconfirmed
- 162 people were arrested in the raids.
- The raids occurred in five cities as part of the My Family is Safe operation.
- Police raided a men's bathhouse.
- President Erdogan is targeting perverts to appeal to conservatives before elections.
What to watch next
- Official government statements regarding the legal charges filed against the detainees
- Reports on the status of blocked online accounts and advocacy group access
- Further police actions under the My Family is Safe operation
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (10)
- dw.com — Turkey: 162 arrested in LGBTQ+ raids
- BBC — Turkish police detain dozens in raids on gay bars and homes of LGBTQ+ activists
- AP News — Turkish authorities launch crackdown on LGBTQ+ and HIV support groups
- The Times of Israel — Turkish police carry out widespread raids on LGBTQ bars, activists’ homes
- Bloomberg.com — Turkey Cracks Down on LGBTQ+ Groups, Blocks Online Accounts
- CNN — Turkey detains dozens after sweeping raids targeting LGBTQ+ groups
- www.upi.com — Experts warn of gaps in South Korea criminal justice overhaul
- www.washingtonblade.com — Dozens detained after Turkish authorities raid LGBTQ groups, businesses
- www.upi.com — South Korean companies double self-generated power in decade
- www.ynetnews.com — Turkey arrests dozens in sweeping LGBTQ crackdown as Erdogan targets ‘perverts’
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