Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his dissatisfaction with the color scheme of the United Nations General Assembly’s meeting hall, suggesting that it resembled the rainbow pride flag associated with the LGBTQ community. Speaking to journalists at the Turkish House in New York on Friday, Erdogan stated that seeing the colors of the LGBTQ flag on the steps and other areas of the UN General Assembly bothered him. He also emphasized that both LGBTQ individuals and those who are against them have the right to express their views.
Erdogan raised his concerns about the presence of these colors during his meeting with the UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres. He emphasized that this issue is not just about appearance but a humanitarian one, as there are people who are disturbed by the LGBTQ colors. Erdogan also questioned the prevalence of LGBTQ individuals globally, hinting that their representation may not be proportional to the visibility of their symbols at the UN.
The Turkish president’s comments come in the context of Turkey’s increasingly conservative tone regarding LGBTQ rights. Although same-sex relations are legal in Turkey, there has been a crackdown on LGBTQ symbols and organizations in recent years. Erdogan himself has used anti-LGBTQ rhetoric in his election campaign, positioning himself as a defender of traditional family values. Shutting down LGBTQ organizations was part of his platform, signaling a repressive approach towards LGBTQ rights in Turkey.
The color scheme in question consists of 17 different colors, symbolizing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. These colors are used as decorations on the walls and steps of the General Assembly hall to represent the UN’s commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development.
Erdogan’s comments have generated mixed reactions. Supporters argue that he is advocating for the conservative values of Turkish society, while critics view his remarks as an attack on the LGBTQ community and an infringement on their rights. The dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between conservative values and LGBTQ rights at both the national and international level.
In conclusion, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his displeasure with the color scheme of the UN General Assembly’s meeting hall, comparing it to the LGBTQ rainbow pride flag. His comments reflect Turkey’s conservative stance on LGBTQ rights, which has resulted in the closure of LGBTQ organizations. The issue highlights the ongoing dialogue surrounding the balance between traditional values and LGBTQ rights both in Turkey and globally.
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