The Conference of International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGOs) of the Council of Europe is deeply concerned by reports of coordinated raids, detentions and restrictions targeting LGBTI organisations, activists and human rights defenders in Türkiye during the weekend of 12–13 September.
According to information received, judicial proceedings have reportedly been initiated against a significant number of individuals and organisations across several provinces. These proceedings have been accompanied by searches of association offices and private homes, detentions and the seizure of electronic devices. Access to the websites and social media accounts of a number of LGBTI organisations and activists has also been restricted.
Measures undertaken to investigate alleged criminal offences and protect public safety must be firmly grounded in law and comply with the principles of necessity and proportionality in pursuit of a legitimate aim. They must not be used to restrict fundamental freedoms or to target individuals and organisations because of their sexual orientation, gender identity or legitimate human rights work.
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