Turkey detains dozens in crackdown on LGBTQ+ activists and journalists
Turkish authorities have launched a widespread crackdown on LGBTQ+ activists and journalists, conducting raids in multiple cities under the guise of obscenity laws. Rights groups report that over 150 people have been detained, marking a significant escalation in state pressure on the community.
Why it matters
This crackdown represents a significant shift in civil liberties and human rights policy within Turkey, drawing international concern regarding freedom of expression and assembly.
Police detain a protester in Ankara. Rights groups say at least 150 demonstrators were held in Istanbul and dozens in Ankara in the ‘widest crackdown’ in years. Photograph: NurPhoto/Getty Police detain a protester in Ankara. Rights groups say at least 150 demonstrators were held in Istanbul and dozens in Ankara in the ‘widest crackdown’ in years. Photograph: NurPhoto/Getty Rights and freedom Global development Turkey detains dozens in crackdown on LGBTQ+ activists and journalists Protesters teargassed as minister claims widespread raids and arrests under obscenity laws were to ‘protect families’
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