Between 23 and 24 February 2026, 30 representatives from 10 LGBTI organisations in Türkiye took part in a two-day workshop in Ankara, during which they discussed the current threats and rights violations faced by LGBTI people, and developed joint strategies for countering discrimination and hate.
Particular focus was given to restrictions on trans people's right to health and gender-affirming processes. The participants also discussed the increasing use of “public morality” and “obscenity” laws to justify restrictions on freedom of expression and association.
In response to the current challenges and risks faced by LGBTI organisations and people, the civil society representatives prepared action plans for advocacy and communication to safeguard equality and non-discrimination, freedom of expression and association and the right to healthcare for trans people in line with Council of Europe standards.
The workshop provided an important space for joint reflection on how to counter discriminatory legislative initiatives and practices, stigmatisation and hate, and for strengthening partnerships and coordination.
The event was organised as part of the “Promoting Human Rights and Equality for LGBTI Persons IV” project, which is implemented by the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC) Unit of the Council of Europe.
