Turkey Begins Broad Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Community

Turkish authorities have launched a sweeping crackdown targeting LGBTQ+ people and activists, with arrests reported in several cities. Officials have cited public morality and national security while pursuing restrictions on Pride events, demonstrations, online content, and advocacy groups. Rights organizations say the campaign is intended to intimidate the community and suppress peaceful expression. The crackdown follows years of growing anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric from senior officials and places Turkey’s already limited protections for sexual minorities under renewed pressure at home and abroad.