Philea’s Legal Affairs Committee has expressed serious concern over escalating restrictions on civic space in Türkiye, following coordinated operations targeting LGBTI+ organisations, activists, human rights defenders and journalists since 12 September 2026. According to Philea, at least 117 people had been detained by 23 September, including 44 LGBTI+ human rights defenders, while 77 remained under arrest as of 15 October. The operations have also involved searches of association offices, restrictions on websites and social media accounts, and investigations into organisations’ foreign funding. Philea particularly warns against portraying lawful international funding as evidence of foreign influence or criminal activity, given the risks this poses to CSOs, donors and their international partners. Calling for the restoration of fundamental rights and civic freedoms, Philea urges funders to strengthen solidarity networks and provide flexible, long-term and rapid-response support, alongside legal assistance, digital security and protection mechanisms for organisations operating in increasingly restrictive environments. Read more here.
Source: Philea