Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has stirred controversy by criticizing the Eurovision Song Contest for allegedly promoting “gender neutralization” and threatening traditional family values. Erdogan described participants in the contest as “Trojan horses of social corruption” and claimed that his government made the right decision to keep Turkey out of the competition since 2012.
The Turkish leader’s comments were sparked by Swiss singer Nemo, who recently won the Eurovision Song Contest with a performance that embraced a nonbinary identity. Erdogan condemned the event for becoming a platform that he believes is no longer representative of “normal” individuals.
Erdogan’s remarks come amidst a broader concern in Turkey about declining birth rates, which he has labeled as an “existential threat” and a “disaster” for the country. The Turkish leader has long advocated for families to have at least three children to address this demographic challenge.
Critics have accused Erdogan of using the Eurovision controversy to distract from domestic issues and to bolster his conservative political agenda. The president’s comments have reignited debates about LGBTQ rights and the role of cultural events in shaping societal norms.
As Turkey grapples with social and demographic challenges, Erdogan’s stance on the Eurovision Song Contest reflects broader tensions within the country over issues of identity, tradition, and modernity. The president’s remarks have sparked both support and backlash, highlighting the complex and evolving dynamics of Turkish society.