686. On 2 June 2006 the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning the Rainbow Solidarity and Cultural Association for Transgenders, Gays and Lesbians (Gokkusagi Dernegi), a non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights of lesbian, gay and transgender persons in Turkey. According to the information received, on 3 March 2006 the Rainbow Solidarity and Cultural Association forTransgenders, Gays and Lesbians (Gokkusagi Dernegi) was established in the city of Bursa. On 24 May 2006 it is reported that the Deputy Governor of Bursa initiated a court procedure at the Principal Registry, requesting the closure of the organization on the grounds that its establishment violated Articles 56 and 60 of the Turkish Civil Code, which prohibit the establishment of an organization that “is against the laws and morality rules”. It is alleged that in the request for closure, the Deputy Governor also referred to Article 11 of the European Convention of Human Rights. Concern was expressed that the reported court procedure was an attempt to close the Rainbow Solidarity and Cultural Association for Transgenders, Gays and Lesbians and that it was an attempt to prevent those who defend the rights of sexual minorities from forming, joining and participating in non governmental organizations.
link to full text of the Report:
http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrcouncil/docs/4session/A-HRC-4-37-Add-1.pdf