The EU is following with concern the recent arrests and legal proceedings initiated against LGBTIQ+ persons, activists, human rights defenders and organisations, businesses, peaceful protestors, as well as the blockages of websites and social media accounts, accompanied with allegations concerning funding of civil society organisations.
We note the reported release of many of those detained. Turkish authorities should ensure due process guarantees are upheld, release of any persons arbitrarily detained, the dropping of unfounded charges, and an end to intimidation against civil society and LGBTIQ+ persons, organisations and human rights defenders.
Stigmatisation and discrimination are contrary to the values of the Union. The respect, protection and fulfilment of all human rights, including the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, freedom of association, freedom of expression and media freedom by LGBTIQ+ persons, are fundamental values that Türkiye, as a candidate country and a long-standing member of the Council of Europe, should uphold.
Civil society organisations, including those working on human rights, equality and non-discrimination, health, and support services, should be able to operate freely, safely, and without discrimination, in line with the rule of law.
Support to civil society by international partners is a well-established practice. Targeting international donors, that work in a transparent and accountable manner, may threaten freedom of association, pluralism and the civic space.
The EU recalls that last year’s Enlargement Report on Türkiye explicitly recommended improvements to the legislative framework and its enforcement, in order to effectively combat discrimination and protect LGBTIQ+ persons from all forms of discrimination