The Social Policies, Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Studies Association (SPoD) and Young Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans Intersex Youth Studies and Solidarity Association (Genç LGBTI+) have prepared the “LGBTI+ Friendly Municipality Protocol Text”.The text aims to remind candidates running for mayorship of their responsibilities in the realization of LGBTI+ rights prior to the local elections on March 31.

Source: “LGBTI-friendly Municipalities Protocol from SPoD and Genç LGBTI+” (“SPoD ve Genç LGBTİ+’dan “LGBTİ+ Dostu Belediyecilik Protokolü”), Marsel Tuğkan Gündoğdu, KaosGL, January 25, 2019, http://kaosgl.org/sayfa.php?id=27448 This is a summary translation of the original article.

The protocol text expects the mayoral candidates to remain aware of the rights violations and discrimination against the LGBTI+ residents after the election, especially during the current increase in violence and discrimination.  

The candidates are reminded to carry out necessary policies for LGBTI+ individuals’ exercise of the rights to healthcare, accomodation, employment and transportation, as well as that of access to local public services. The protocol also demands that the candidates devise LGBTI+-inclusive policies in their strategic plans and take concrete steps for the improvement and protection of the rights and liberties of LGBTI+ individuals.

With this protocol, SPoD and Genç LGBTI+ have embarked upon a wider campaign, covering the six-month period until the local elections. This campaign summarizes the need for local governments that will work towards maintaining discrimination-free urban environments, and for mayors that will tend to the needs and demands of LGBTI+ individuals who are an integral part of our cities.

You may send your suggestions, questions and opinions regarding the protocol to the following e-mail addresses: [email protected] [email protected]