17/11/2025 | Writer: Kaos GL
In its statement, the Executive Board said, “We stand up for everyone’s equal rights and freedoms and continue the struggle for equality and justice with determination.”
The Executive Board of the Istanbul City Council Women’s Assembly issued a statement on its social media accounts regarding the 11th Judicial Package, which has come to public attention for containing anti LGBTI+ provisions.
In its statement, the Board recalled news suggesting that the anti LGBTI+ articles had been removed from the package, adding, “The issue is not limited to this.”
The statement continued:
“Some articles included in the draft of the 11th Judicial Package contained restrictive, exclusionary, and punitive measures targeting LGBTI+ individuals. Although it has been announced that these articles will not be included in the package following public backlash, the issue is not solely about this. What must be emphasized here is the following: The constant debate over fundamental individual rights and freedoms, which are guaranteed, inviolable, and inalienable under the Constitution, leads to a questioning of the most essential principles of a democratic society. The existence and protection of rights are not negotiable preferences; they are integral components of citizenship and the principle of equality. Even without a legal amendment, such debates make previously untouchable rights appear open to contestation.”
“We defend everyone’s equal rights and freedoms”
Stating “We continue our struggle with determination,” the Board added:
“Judicial reforms are not limited to strengthening the justice system; they also bear the responsibility of protecting equal rights for everyone. For this reason, any regulation to be introduced directly affects individuals’ right to life, freedom of expression, and protection from discrimination, regardless of their identity or affiliations. It is unacceptable to deviate from these fundamental principles in any policy that aims to be egalitarian and inclusive; we continue our struggle to protect these rights with unwavering commitment. As the Executive Board of the Istanbul City Council Women’s Assembly, we reject these intended restrictive policies. We stand for everyone’s equal rights and freedoms and continue the struggle for equality and justice with determination. Taking as our basis the fact that city councils prioritize participation within local governance, we will continue to raise our voices for the equal representation and protection of all citizens’ rights. Because we know that participatory democracy gains its true meaning only when strengthened by the principles of equality and freedom.”
Tags: human rights, women, family, trans, lgbti
