Proposed judicial reform in Turkey introduces prison sentences for LGBTQ+ individuals

Ankara, Turkey – The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in Turkey has introduced a new judicial reform bill to the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) that proposes sweeping legal penalties targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. 

Known as the 10th Judicial Package, the draft legislation includes provisions that criminalize certain LGBTQ+ activities and expressions, according to a report by Alican Uludağ of NOW TV.

Among the most controversial measures, the proposed bill seeks to impose prison sentences on individuals who undergo gender reassignment surgery without state authorization, as well as same-sex couples who hold wedding ceremonies—even in private.

Sources close to the legislative process indicate that the minimum legal age for gender reassignment would be raised from 18 to 25 under the new package. If enacted, this would make it significantly harder for transgender individuals to access gender-affirming healthcare.

The AKP’s judicial package is still under discussion within the party’s parliamentary group. However, rights organizations and legal experts have already voiced serious concern over what they describe as an unprecedented escalation of state-led discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community in Turkey.

Critics argue that these measures, if passed, would not only violate fundamental human rights but also contravene international agreements to which Turkey is a party, including provisions related to non-discrimination and freedom of expression.

The Turkish government has not yet publicly commented on the specific contents of the package. Human rights observers are closely monitoring the legislative process, warning that the international response could be swift and critical should the bill advance in its current form.

This is a developing story.