Turkey Deports Syrian LGBT+ Refugees Back to Danger
In a move that has sparked widespread outrage, Turkish authorities have begun deporting Syrian LGBT+ refugees back to their homeland, where they face impending danger of persecution, violence, and even death.
According to reports from human rights organizations, dozens of LGBT+ refugees have been detained and forcibly returned to Syria in recent weeks. This decision conflicts with international law, which prohibits the forced return of individuals to countries where they may face persecution or harm.
Syria has a notorious record of persecuting LGBT+ individuals. Under the Assad regime, LGBT+ people face arrest, torture, and execution. The Islamic State (ISIS), which still maintains a presence in parts of the country, has also brutally targeted LGBT+ individuals.
Article 520 of the Syrian Penal Code criminalizes homosexuality and is used to sanction LGBT people with a prison term of up to three years.
Hazem (false name), a gay man who was displaced from Rif Dimashq to northwest Syria, told Al-Monitor, “Someone ratted me out to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and I was arrested and faced the most severe forms of torture and humiliation for eight months. When I was released by a general amnesty, I moved to areas under the control of the [opposition-affiliated] Syrian National Army for fear of being arrested again.”
He added, “But because of my sexual orientation and society’s intolerance toward me, I am still unable to get a job. I find myself compelled to live in complete secrecy for fear of facing any physical or psychological harm.”
Turkey’s move comes amidst increasing anti-LGBT+ rhetoric and crackdowns within the country. In recent years, Turkish authorities have banned Pride parades, arrested LGBT+ activists, and propagated homophobic and transphobic sentiment.
TEP demands that Turkey:
1. Immediately halt deportations of LGBT+ refugees.
2. Ensure safe and dignified treatment of all refugees.
3. Uphold international human rights law and protections.
Turkey’s decision to deport Syrian LGBT+ refugees back to danger is unacceptable. The lives of LGBT+ refugees depend on our collective action. Join us in calling for international action.
#ProtectLGBTRefugees
#StopDeportations
