On November 20, 2024, Trans+ Day of Remembrance, the Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency, under the Ministry of Health, took a step that will make life difficult for trans+ people by announcing an indefinite restriction on medications used by trans+ individuals for hormone replacement therapy.
What does this restriction mean?
This restriction limits access to testosterone, estrogen, and GnRH analogs through government-controlled quotas. This makes it nearly impossible for trans+ individuals to access hormone therapy, especially for those who cannot complete official processes or rely on the healthcare system. Restricting access to hormones poses a significant threat to the physical and mental health of trans+ individuals.
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We do not accept this regulation and demand its immediate withdrawal. The right to equal access to healthcare cannot be violated by arbitrary policies or discriminatory practices. We, as trans+ people, reject this imposition on our bodies. We will continue to strengthen our solidarity networks to defend our right to life, bodily autonomy and equal access to healthcare. We, as queers and trans+ individuals from Turkey and Cyprus who are living in the UK: Tahini Molasses, Darlink Dick, Uran Apak and Toby Kind from Harem of No One and Sissy Misfits and Kübra Uzun, are organising our first event on Saturday, 1st of February 2025 starting from 18:30 at The Divine for the public awareness about the latest restrictions and their effects and to support our non-binary and trans+ siblings living in Turkey , who are having difficulties on their hormone replacement therapy process. All the proceeds from this event will be transferred directly to Trans+ Yasam Desteği Platformu , a voluntary platform which was founded right after the arrival of restrictions on medications used by trans+ individuals for hormone replacement therapy on November 20, 2024.
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Why is this solidarity needed?
This solidarity is vital to defend the health rights of trans+ individuals in Turkey, facilitate access to hormone therapies, and strengthen solidarity networks. The collected donations will be used in the following areas:
- Emergency medical support: for access to hormone therapy and other essential health services.
- Legal support: to fight against discriminatory laws and protect individual rights.
- Strengthening solidarity networks: to ensure trans+ individuals have access to safe living conditions.
- Awareness-raising: to educate the public and build a solidarity network for trans+ access to healthcare.