Turkish Education Minister addresses transgender teacher discrimination case

Turkish Education Minister Yusuf Tekin addressed an ongoing investigation into alleged discrimination against Zoe Lila, a transgender English teacher at a private school in Istanbul. The case was brought to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey by lawmaker Özgül Saki, who questioned whether gender identity or transition affects professional eligibility and what protections exist for privacy and equality.

Lila, who taught at Açı Middle School in the Sarıyer district, reported that her contract was not renewed following media coverage of her gender transition. She alleged that the school changed its stance after a Ministry of National Education investigation was launched.

Minister Tekin stated that legally recognized identity or record changes are not, in themselves, grounds to prevent an individual from teaching. He emphasized that professional evaluations are based on legal qualifications, professional duties, and the best interests of students. He added that preventing discrimination and maintaining a safe, respectful educational environment are core policies of the Ministry.