"Not EU values": anger in Turkey and Europe over Erdogan's new steps

The EU condemned mass arrests of LGBTQ activists in Turkey, calling them contrary to European values. Turkish police conducted raids in several cities, detaining at least 60 people. Turkish authorities said the operation aims to protect the family and public order. Protests in Izmir were dispersed with tear gas.

The European Union condemned mass arrests of LGBTQ activists in Turkey, calling them contrary to EU values. Turkish police conducted large-scale raids in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Aydın, and Mersin, detaining at least 60 people. Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gürlek said judicial proceedings have been initiated against 162 suspects, nine organizations, and 13 businesses. Turkish authorities stated the operation aims to protect children, the institution of the family, and public order, and is linked to suspicions of prostitution and distribution of obscene materials. A day before the raids, accounts of over a dozen LGBTQ organizations on X, including Kaos GL, were blocked. The operation is part of the "Decade of Family and Population" program promoted by President Erdogan. On Monday, a protest in Izmir was dispersed by police using pepper spray and tear gas. A court in Izmir ordered 16 suspects to be held in custody. European Commission spokesperson Christian Wigand said Ankara is expected to uphold human rights. Turkey's EU accession talks are effectively frozen.