Erdogan criticizes UN’s “rainbow” colors mistaking them for LGBTQIA+ symbols

At the recently concluded United Nations General Assembly held in New York, President Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey caused a stir by raising concerns about the "rainbow" colors prominently displayed at the venue. Speaking to journalists during his visit, ErdGğan indicated that one of his primary discomforts was the colors he perceived as representing the LGBTQIA+ community.

According to Turkey’s state-run Anadolu Agency, Erdogan mentioned his intention to relay his concerns to the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, but could not find the opportunity. He was quoted as saying, "As much as these steps represent a certain community, they should also acknowledge those who are disturbed by it. It's a matter of human concern."

In Turkey, attitudes towards the LGBTQIA+ community have been notably tense, with President Erdoğan and his allied parties and institutions adopting a critical stance against LGBTQIA+ rights and individuals, much to the dismay of the local LGBTQIA+ community.

However, an important clarification arises in the context of Erdogan's remarks. The rainbow colors at the UN do not symbolize LGBTQIA+ rights. Instead, they stand for the 17 sustainable development goals of the United Nations, adopted by world leaders in 2015 with a target date of 2030. These goals encompass global challenges such as eradicating hunger, poverty, addressing climate change, fighting inequalities, and promoting gender equality.

In recent times, Erdogan's statements opposing LGBTQIA+ rights and emphasizing the importance of family structures have attracted attention. During his visit, he reiterated his intention to constitutionally safeguard the family institution, asserting, "Protecting the family is equivalent to protecting Turkey, and our homeland. We will fight this issue most effectively in our country." Elaborating further on the significance of family, Erdogan expressed concerns about what he perceives as attempts in various countries to weaken family structures for societal disruption. He resolved, "We have never allowed, and will never allow, any attempts targeting our family structures and youth in our country."