In Pics | LGBTQ activists rally in Istanbul despite government's ban
Hundreds of demonstrators
Hundreds of demonstrators gather in the streets of Istanbul to join the gay pride rally. After President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's win in the recent elections in May for the term till 2028, the LGBTQ community fears conservative rule.
Over 50 activists detained
Over 50 activists were detained during the demonstrations, said the organisers of the march, according to a Reuters report. Amnesty International said at least one person sustained head injuries during the clash.
High security in the area
Turkish riot police could be seen across the area blocking the streets as the protesters continued the unauthorized march in the city on June 25. The access to Istiklal Avenue and central Taksim Square, the traditional venues for the Pride parades, were blocked and public transport in the area was halted.
Defying the ban
Although homosexuality is not illegal in Turkey, Erdogan and his AK Party have stiffened their policies on LGBTQ rights, having Islamic roots. The protestors marched the streets waving rainbow flags, defying the government's ban on demonstrations.
President Erdogan
Erdogan has promised his supporters his party will never let the LGBTQ community enter their Islamic-centric party. He has also accused CHP, the main opposition party of being pro-LGBTQ.
Government's anti-LGBTI stance
As quoted in an AFP report, Nils Muiznieks, Amnesty International Europe director said that the government's anti-LGBTI stance is fueling anti-LGBTI groups and prejudice in Turkey, which has resulted in violence against LGBTI communities in some instances.
LGBTQ community targeted
Muiznieks said that the government is denying the rights of LGBTI people under the pretext of protecting the traditional family structure. The organisers of the LGBTQ community said they have been targeted by Erdogan.
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