Turkey has launched a coordinated operation covering 162 suspects, nine associations and 13 businesses across 15 provinces as Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s government turns its family and morality agenda into a nationwide enforcement campaign.
At least 47 people had been detained by September 13, including people associated with LGBTQ+ and HIV-support organisations.
Websites and social-media accounts connected with some organisations and activists have also been blocked.
Prosecutors are investigating alleged offences including prostitution, obscenity, drugs and organised criminal activity.
Justice Minister Akin Gürlek says the operation, branded “My Family is Safe”, is intended to protect children, young people and families.
It forms part of Erdoğan’s broader “Decade of Family and Population” initiative.
FROM RHETORIC TO ENFORCEMENT
Turkey’s governing AKP has increasingly placed traditional family values at the centre of its religious-conservative politics.
The latest operation adds the machinery of the state.
162 suspects.
Nine associations.
13 businesses.
15 provinces.
Rights organisations argue that criminal allegations are being used to suppress civil society the government dislikes.
The government says it is enforcing criminal law.
Those allegations will ultimately have to withstand scrutiny in court.
The wider boundary matters too.
A state can prosecute provable crimes. The question is whether Turkey is also beginning to police identities and lawful dissent under the banner of protecting the family.
Sources
Reuters: Turkey detains dozens in nationwide operation
Anadolu Agency: Justice Minister gives figures for ‘My Family is Safe’ operation
Join the Dissenting Citizen Newsletter
Independent news and commentary delivered directly to your inbox.
