Unveiling the Digital Dynamics: Anti-Gender Ideology and LGBTQ+ Opposition in Contemporary Turkey

In the current landscape, where anti-gender ideology is gaining momentum, perspectives and practices opposing the rights and societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals are emerging. Some groups argue that media platforms, including social media, along with civil society organizations and activists supporting LGBTQ+ rights, either encourage LGBTQ+ individuals or that the content on these platforms goes too far. In Turkey, the anti-gender movement, represented in events such as “Family Gatherings" attended by representatives from GONGOs, political groups, university rectors, and politicians, finds significant traction on social media by actively engaging in post-truth politics discourse. This study focuses on analyzing the websites and social media posts of civil society initiatives and organizations, specifically "Mesele LGBT," "Aile Apartmanı," and “Cumhuriyet Kadınları Derneği,” addressing the growing opposition to LGBTQ+ rights in Turkey. Employing framing theory, the research aims to examine how these groups, sharing opposition to LGBTQ+ rights but differing in political views beyond gender, portray the LGBTQ+ issue and to understand how these frames influence public opinion. This study contributes to the overarching theme of the panel by shedding light on the intricate interplay between illiberal politics, the rise of anti-gender agendas, and opposition to LGBTQ+ rights within the specific digital context of the initiatives and organizations in Turkey. It underscores the critical importance of promptly grasping these dynamics to comprehensively understand the forces currently reshaping political and social landscapes in Turkey.