What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Turkey? Let’s take a look at some of the key equality indicators.

Is homosexuality legal in Turkey?

Yes. Same-sex sexual activity was decriminalised by the Ottoman Empire in 1858, and this was unchanged when modern-day Turkey emerged in 1923.

Are there anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Turkey?

No. There are no protections against discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.

Is there Marriage Equality in Turkey?

No. There is no legal recognition for same-sex relationships.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Turkey?

Turkey is a socially conservative country. Homosexuality is seen as a taboo subject.

Homophobia is systemic.

LGBTQ people generally conceal their sexuality.

Attempts to hold LGBTQ Pride celebrations in Istanbul have consistently been a point of conflict between the LGBTQ community and the authorities in Turkey.