Turkey Bans All LGBT Events in Ankara

After a ban on a German gays films festival in Ankara last week, Turkish officials on Sunday moved to indefinitely prohibit all LGBT events in Turkey’s capital, citing security reasons and social sensitivities.

The latest ban came into effect on Saturday and included all LGBT film screenings, theaters, panels, and exhibitions.

A statement by Ankara Governor’s office said on Sunday that the ban was introduced to protect public security.

The governor’s office said the events might cause enmity between different social groups.

It also said some groups may be provoked by LGBT events and may target participants to preserve social sensitivities.

Homosexuality is a socially divisive issue in Turkey despite the fact that there is no legal prohibition. LGBT groups, however, lament about a hostile political environment and discrimination against them.