Turkey intensifies crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights and media freedom

The Turkish government has intensified a crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals and media outlets under the guise of protecting “family values.” In September 2026, authorities launched a police operation titled “Ailem Güvende” (My Family Is Safe), targeting LGBTQ+ organizations, activists, and venues across various provinces. The operation has resulted in numerous arrests, including activists and journalists, with more than 80 people reportedly remaining in detention.

In addition to physical crackdowns, the government is utilizing internet blocking orders to restrict access to content. An Istanbul court recently ordered the blocking of the independent news outlet T24, citing concerns that 118 items on its site allegedly weakened the “Turkish family structure” and negatively impacted youth development regarding sexual orientation and gender identity. While T24 removed the contested content within a four-hour deadline, access to the entire website and its social media accounts remained blocked. Amnesty International has also noted that authorities have restricted hundreds of LGBTQ-related social media accounts and websites.