Challenging Norms: The Harmful Effects of Restricting Sexuality to Marriage in Turkey

In Turkey, the rigid association of sexuality with marriage has far-reaching consequences, fueling discrimination and deepening social divides. This entrenched connection not only marginalizes those who don't fit the traditional mold but also perpetuates harmful norms that affect public health, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights.

1. Social Norms: The Root of the Issue

Turkey is a country where cultural and religious values play a significant role in shaping social norms. In many communities, Islamic teachings and traditional values emphasize that sexual activity should only occur within marriage. This belief is deeply ingrained, leading to the stigmatization of individuals who engage in premarital or extramarital sex, as well as those who identify as LGBTQ+.

For many, this means living in the shadows, facing judgment and exclusion from a society that sees their choices or identities as immoral or unacceptable. The pressure to conform to these norms can be overwhelming, pushing people to hide their true selves or live in fear of being discovered.

2. Marginalization of LGBTQ+ Communities

The strong link between sexuality and marriage used for reinforceing heteronormative standards, leaving LGBTQ+ individuals particularly vulnerable. In Turkey, same-sex relationships are not legally recognized, and there is a lack of legal protections for LGBTQ+ rights. This legal vacuum contributes to the social and legal marginalization of LGBTQ+ people, who are often excluded from key institutions, including marriage.

Without the ability to marry or receive legal recognition of their relationships, LGBTQ+ individuals face significant challenges. They are denied the rights and benefits that come with marriage, such as inheritance rights, tax benefits, and social security. Moreover, the lack of legal recognition can make it harder for LGBTQ+ people to access essential services, including healthcare, housing, and employment, further entrenching their marginalization.

3. Gender Inequality and Honor-Based Violence

The association of sexuality with marriage also perpetuates gender inequality, particularly for women. In many parts of Turkey, a woman's value is often tied to her marital status and sexual purity. Women who do not conform to these expectations—such as single mothers, divorced women, or women who choose not to marry—can face significant social ostracism, economic disadvantages, and even violence.

Honor-based violence is a particularly disturbing manifestation of this issue. In some communities, women who are perceived to have dishonored their families by engaging in premarital or extramarital sex are at risk of violence, including forced marriages or even "honor killings." These practices are rooted in the belief that a family's honor is tied to the sexual behavior of its women, a belief that is reinforced by the strict association of sexuality with marriage.

4. Barriers to Comprehensive Sexual Health Education

The emphasis on marital sexuality also creates barriers to comprehensive sexual health education. In Turkey, sex education often focuses on promoting abstinence until marriage, leaving young people without the information they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health. This lack of education contributes to misinformation, higher rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unplanned pregnancies.

Comprehensive sex education is essential for empowering individuals to take control of their sexual health. However, in a society where sexuality is strictly tied to marriage, providing this education can be challenging. Resistance from conservative groups and the government often stymies efforts to introduce more inclusive and informative curricula, leaving many young people unprepared for the realities of sexual relationships.

Finally, the strong cultural emphasis on marriage as the only acceptable context for sexual activity makes it difficult to advance progressive legal and social reforms. Efforts to expand rights for women and LGBTQ+ individuals or to improve sexual and reproductive health services often face significant resistance from conservative segments of society.

This resistance not only hinders progress but also deepens the divide between those who support traditional values and those who advocate for change. It creates an environment where discrimination is normalized, and the rights of marginalized groups are consistently undermined.

The Need for Change

The rigid association of sexuality with marriage in Turkey has devastating consequences for individuals and society as a whole. It fuels discrimination, perpetuates harmful gender norms, and limits access to essential services and rights. To create a more inclusive and equitable society, it is crucial to challenge these norms and promote a more open and accepting view of sexuality—one that recognizes and respects the diversity of human experiences and identities.