The Turkish government has drafted a bill introducing prison terms for LGBTQ+ people

The Turkish government has submitted to Parliament a draft 11th judicial reform package that introduces serious restrictions and criminalization for members of the LGBTQ+ community. The bill proposes imprisonment for publicly expressing one’s identity, holding same-sex ceremonies and significantly tightens the rules for transgender transition.

Attitude reports that the proposed amendments reflect the conservative priorities of the authorities and introduce significant legal restrictions. According to the draft, anyone who publicly promotes behavior or identity that does not match the sex indicated at birth could face one to three years in prison. Same-sex couples conducting engagement or wedding ceremonies are punishable by one and a half to four years in prison.

The reforms pay special attention to the transgender community. The minimum age for sex reassignment surgeries is proposed to be raised from 18 to 25. In addition, candidates will have to meet strict requirements: to be unmarried (unmarried), to provide a conclusion of the medical commission on the psychological necessity of the procedure and to undergo four separate evaluations with an interval of at least three months. Bypassing the rules could result in three to seven years in prison and fines.

Observers note that Turkey has seen a rise in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric since President Recep Tayyip Erdogan took office in 2014, and Pride marches were banned after just one year in office. Government officials justify the need for reforms by seeking to protect traditional families, promote healthy development and preserve public order.

Recall that on September 6, 2025, in the Church of the Most Holy Name of Jesus in Rome, representatives of the RCC mass for homosexual Catholics. The event was held «with the blessing» of Pope Leo XIV and gathered about 1200 participants. The Mass was led by Bishop Francesco Savino, vice president of the Italian Bishops’ Conference.