Erdogan criticized the Eurovision Song Contest for allegedly promoting “gender neutralization” and threatening traditional family values. He accused participants of being “Trojan horses of social corruption” and claimed that Turkey made the right decision to stay out of the competition since 2012. The recent winner of the contest, Swiss singer Nemo, who identifies as nonbinary, was specifically mentioned as an example of the contest’s promotion of non-traditional gender identities. Erdogan’s comments reflect his government’s stance on LGBTQ rights, which has become less tolerant in recent years due to its Islamic roots.
The Turkish president also expressed concern about the declining birth rates in the country, referring to it as an “existential threat” and a “disaster.” Turkey’s State Statistical Institute reported that the birth rate in 2023 had dropped to 1.51 children per woman, prompting Erdogan to call on families to have at least three children. This emphasis on increasing the birth rate aligns with Erdogan’s conservative beliefs and his government’s policies aimed at promoting traditional family values in Turkish society.
Erdogan’s criticism of the Eurovision Song Contest and his concerns about declining birth rates highlight his government’s commitment to preserving conservative values and preventing what he sees as threats to the traditional family structure. By linking these issues, Erdogan positions himself as a defender of conservative values and a protector of Turkish society from perceived moral decay. His comments resonate with his base of supporters, who share his conservative beliefs and prioritize traditional family values in their lives.
The Turkish leader’s remarks come at a time when LGBTQ rights are a contentious issue in Turkey, with the government facing criticism for its crackdown on LGBTQ individuals and organizations. Erdogan’s comments about the Eurovision Song Contest and birth rates reflect a broader cultural and political struggle over values and identity in Turkey, as the country grapples with modernization and social change. Erdogan’s focus on these issues serves to reinforce his image as a champion of conservative values and a guardian of Turkey’s cultural heritage.
As Erdogan continues to push for a higher birth rate and criticize events like the Eurovision Song Contest, his government’s policies are likely to further polarize Turkish society along conservative and liberal lines. The clash between traditional values and modern influences, such as LGBTQ rights and gender identity, will continue to shape Turkey’s political landscape and social dynamics. Erdogan’s stance on these issues reflects a broader debate about the future direction of Turkish society and the role of conservatism in shaping its cultural and political identity.
