Travelers who identify as LGBTQIA include queer or questioning people, intersex people, asexual people, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender people. It also includes those who identify beyond these commonly used sexualities and gender expressions. Since it is everyone’s right to feel safe, we have created a brief safety guide specifically for LGBTQIA travelers to Turkey.
Turkey’s relationship with its LGBTQ+ community is a complex one, marked by a mix of progress and setbacks. While homosexuality itself is not illegal, the legal and social landscape for LGBTQ+ individuals remains riddled with challenges. This article delves into the nuances of LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey, drawing insights from both Wikipedia’s “LGBT rights in Turkey” page and Intrepid Travel’s “Is Turkey safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?”
Legality of Same-Sex Relations:
The good news is that same-sex sexual relations between consenting adults are legal in Turkey. However, the absence of explicit legal protections leaves LGBTQ+ individuals vulnerable to discrimination and harassment. Vague laws against “public exhibitionism” and “offenses against public morality” can be used to target and persecute them.
Recognition of Same-Sex Relationships:
Turkey does not legally recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions, or domestic partnerships. This lack of recognition creates significant hurdles in areas like inheritance, healthcare, and immigration.
Military Service:
Compulsory military service applies to all Turkish men between 18 and 41. However, the Turkish military openly discriminates against homosexuals, barring them from serving. This discriminatory practice is compounded by the lack of recognition for conscientious objection, forcing some LGBTQ+ individuals to undergo humiliating medical examinations to “prove” their homosexuality.
Discrimination Protections:
Currently, no laws in Turkey protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, or public accommodations. This lack of legal safeguards leaves them vulnerable to widespread prejudice and unfair treatment.
Gender Identity and Expression:
The legal minimum age for sex reassignment surgery in Turkey is 18. Individuals seeking gender reassignment can change their legal gender marker on their identity card through a procedure conducted at a state hospital.
Media Regulations:
LGBT-themed movies and DVDs are not banned in Turkey, offering a platform for representation and awareness. However, the government retains the power to censor content deemed “immoral” or “offensive to public morality.”
Restrictions on Expression:
While the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally protected in Turkey, LGBTQ+ pride parades and events have faced increasing restrictions in recent years. The Istanbul Pride parade, once a symbol of progress, has been banned multiple times, citing “security concerns” and “public morality.” Similar bans have been imposed on LGBTQ+ events in Ankara and other cities.
Public Opinion:
Public opinion on LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey remains divided. While surveys indicate a growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals, significant segments of society still hold negative views. This mixed sentiment reflects the complex interplay of cultural norms, religious beliefs, and evolving societal attitudes.
Living Conditions:
Homosexuality remains a taboo subject in many parts of Turkey, and the threat of “honor killings” persists. Prejudice and discrimination are widespread, leading to challenges in accessing employment, housing, and healthcare.
LGBTQ+ Civil Rights Organizations:
Despite the challenges, several LGBTQ+ civil rights organizations operate in Turkey, advocating for equality and justice. These organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness, providing support, and challenging discriminatory practices.
While Turkey has made some strides in recognizing LGBTQ+ rights, the journey towards full equality remains long and arduous. The lack of legal protections, social stigma, and restrictions on expression create a challenging environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. The ongoing efforts of LGBTQ+ activists and organizations are crucial in pushing for progress and creating a more inclusive society for all.
Additional Resources:
- Wikipedia: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_rights_in_Turkey
- Intrepid Travel: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/us/turkey/is-turkey-safe-for-lgbtqia-travellers
- Human Rights Watch: https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2023/country-chapters/turkey
- ILGA-Europe: https://www.ilga-europe.org/
Disclaimer:
This article is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified legal professional for specific guidance on LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey.
Queer culture in Turkey
Turkey’s LGBT community is not as large as that of more liberal European nations, but major cities like Istanbul—particularly the neighborhoods of Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş—Izmir, and Ankara—have burgeoning LGBT communities with vibrant bars, clubs, and galleries. That being said, cisgender gay men and, to a lesser extent, cisgender gay women tend to be the main focus of the venues.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
Solo travel and room sharing
According to the information on your passport, if you are traveling alone on an Intrepid tour, you will stay in a room with a fellow traveler of the same gender. When making your reservation, please let our helpful adventure consultants know if you don’t identify with the gender listed on your passport, and we’ll adjust the rooming accordingly. For those who prefer not to share, the majority of our tours also offer the opportunity to purchase a private room.