The Berlin Brandenburg Turkish Community (TBB) drew attention to the increasing concerns of LGBTIQ+ individuals of Turkish origin due to developments in Turkey. The TBB called on political decision-makers and public institutions. The organization demanded a more comprehensive assessment of queer individuals' protection needs and the strengthening of existing support mechanisms.

In its statement, the TBB emphasized that the protection needs of individuals who have come from Turkey or who may be at risk due to their sexual orientation or gender identity if they return to Turkey must be taken into account.

TBB's Six-Point Demand

The TBB specifically requested the following steps from political authorities and relevant public institutions:

  • Personal and comprehensive assessment of the protection needs of LGBTIQ+ individuals arriving from Turkey,
  • Expansion of existing protection options for queer individuals,
  • Non-deportation of individuals who may be at risk if they return to their home country due to their sexual orientation or gender identity,
  • Increased awareness within the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) and foreigners' authorities regarding the specific circumstances faced by queer asylum seekers,
  • Ensuring easy access to independent, intersectional, and queer-sensitive counseling services in the field of migration law,
  • Adequate and sustainable funding for counseling and support services for queer migrants.

"Concerns Must Not Be Ignored"

At the end of its statement, the TBB stated that the concerns of the queer community of Turkish origin in Berlin must be taken into account.

The TBB conveyed the message, "The concerns of the queer community of Turkish origin in Berlin must not be ignored." It specifically called for the consideration of the unique circumstances LGBTIQ+ individuals may face during migration, asylum, and protection processes.

The statement also highlighted the importance of strengthening counseling and support mechanisms for queer individuals of Turkish origin to access rights and legal assistance.