Turkish authorities carried out a large-scale operation against LGBT activists to protect family values

In Turkey, law enforcement agencies carried out a series of large-scale raids targeting LGBT organizations as part of a government strategy to strengthen traditional family institutions. The campaign, dubbed “My Family Is Safe,” is intended to protect public morality and address the country’s pressing demographic challenges.

During the operation, which spanned 12 provinces, police detained 26 people found in possession of prohibited items, including drugs, contraband alcohol, and weapons. At the same time, the Ankara Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation into the activities of the organization Kaos GL, leading to the detention of another 21 suspects. According to Justice Minister Akin Gürlek, the total number of individuals implicated in the investigation reached 162, and restrictions were imposed on the activities of 9 associations and 13 businesses.

The official agency emphasized that the reason for the harsh measures was suspicion of organizing prostitution and committing indecent acts. The investigation focused particularly on reports that minors may have been subjected to influence related to the gender agenda. Human rights organizations have already reported mass raids on activists’ homes and the blocking of access to websites and social media platforms related to these issues.

These actions are part of a large-scale program called the “Decade of the Family and Population,” initiated by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The goal of this policy is to counteract the declining birth rate and an aging population. Previously, Turkish authorities also took steps to restrict activities related to the LGBT community, specifically by prohibiting a cruise ship carrying activists from docking, citing national moral standards.

As a reminder, on September 12, 2026, a gay pride parade took place in Kharkiv , during which participants held a demonstration in the Kharkiv metro. The event was held under heightened security provided by National Guard personnel.