LGBT policies resemble ‘fascist impositions’: President Erdogan

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Monday that the LGBT policies resemble ‘fascist impositions’ during his address at the Family Year Promotion Program held at the Bestepe National Congress and Culture Center.

His comments reflect his government’s stance on traditional family values and the ongoing debate surrounding gender and sexuality in Türkiye.

The president also announced 2025 as a “family year,” introducing a series of initiatives to support family structures in Türkiye.

These measures focus on providing financial assistance to young couples, encouraging childbearing and offering support to working parents.

Why it matters

The Turkish president’s statement is a clear position against the spread of LGBT ideologies, which he believes threaten the sanctity of the family unit.

The policy proposals aimed at strengthening families will likely play a crucial role in Türkiye’s social policies and demographic challenges.

Details

• Family and youth fund: Erdogan announced the introduction of interest-free loans for newlywed couples. These loans will amount to ₺150,000 (approximately $4,225), with a 48-month repayment plan and a two-year grace period.
• Increased child support: The first childbirth grant has been increased to ₺5,000 (approximately $140). Monthly support for the second and subsequent children will also be introduced, with ₺1,500 (approximately $42) for the second child and ₺5,000 (approximately $140) for additional children.
• Support for working parents: The president stressed the importance of flexible and remote working models for women. Additionally, there will be efforts to expand affordable or free childcare services to support working parents.
• Encouragement for family growth: Erdogan also announced that the government would provide medical support to encourage childbearing and ease the financial burden on families.

Zoom in

Erdogan’s speech underscored Türkiye’s continued commitment to strengthening traditional family values and counteracting what he sees as harmful social trends.

By introducing financial support measures and services, the government aims to reverse declining birth rates and foster a stronger family structure in the country.

Zoom out

This initiative is part of a broader effort to address Türkiye’s demographic challenges, including a decreasing birth rate and an aging population.

These policies, alongside Erdogan’s strong position on LGBT issues, reflect the government’s determination to shape social and cultural values in line with its vision for Türkiye’s future.