The Turkish Audiovisual Council fined Pop music channels Dream TV, Show TV and Kral Popsaid for broadcasting the video “Can’t Remember to Forget You,” claiming it is a bad example for young people, and incites homosexuality, reported national media Friday.
Audiovisual authorities consider that the attitude of the two singers, “lying on a bed in transparent clothes, covering their chests with their hair, and very close to each other ” is “a negative example,” reported Caracol Radio.
“The display of dances and erotic movements invite homosexuality, and the picture may become a model, especially for children and youth,” says the Council, better known under its acronym in Turkey as RTUK . According to the RTUK, the channels violated laws prohibiting the video’s broadcast during times when children are likely to watch, and did so without a content warning.
The text of the decision was drawn up on 20 March, but was published on the Audiovisual Council’s official website Friday, quoting two Turkish psychologists who say that “homosexuality is not natural,” that “homosexuality is against human nature,” and occurs due to “the failure of parents.”
Homosexuality has been legal in Turkey since the 19th century, but in the legal field it is sometimes treated as a disease to justify, for example, exemption from military service.
In cities such as Istanbul and Ankara gay pride is celebrated with a massive parade, organized by Turkish associations active in defending the rights of homosexuals.