How to Protect Your Child from Insults and Discrimination in Turkey
What to Do If Your Child Is Insulted in Turkey: A Step-by-Step Guide
Key Principle: Turkey is a rule-of-law country. The police and gendarmerie do not distinguish between citizens and foreigners—the law provides equal protection for everyone. If your child faces insults or discrimination, you have the right to seek protection from the authorities.
📝 Step 1: File a Criminal Complaint with the Prosecutor’s Office
Your first formal action should be to submit a report regarding the crimes of insult and discrimination.
- Try to gather evidence: witness statements, or audio/video recordings if available.
- This evidence will significantly strengthen your case and help expedite the legal process.
👮♀️ Step 2: Report to the Police (Children’s Unit)
Since the case involves a minor, you should contact the specialized Children’s Police Department (Çocuk Şube).
Here, your child can give an official statement, and the family will be kept informed about the progress of the investigation.
🏫 Step 3: File a Complaint with the School
If the incident occurred at or near the school, submit an official written complaint to the administration.
- The school is legally obligated to review the complaint and take appropriate action.
- You can also escalate the matter by filing a complaint with the Ministry of National Education (MEB).
👨👩👧 Step 4: Seek Social Services & Psychological Support
If your child is experiencing stress, anxiety, or trauma, contact the Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services.
Support Available: They can provide crucial psychological and social support for your child and your family during this time.
⚖️ Step 5: File a Civil Claim for Compensation
If your child has suffered psychological harm, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit for moral damages (manevi tazminat).
Legal Basis: This right is founded on Articles 24–25 and Article 58 of the Turkish Civil Code (Türk Medeni Kanunu).
🔹 Important Legal Points Regarding Minors
- Children under 12: No criminal liability. However, social services will intervene for protective and corrective measures.
- Ages 12–15: Limited criminal responsibility may apply under specific conditions.
- Ages 15–18: Full criminal responsibility applies, but penalties are significantly reduced for minors.
In all cases, the state is obligated to conduct a social investigation and take all necessary measures to protect the children involved.
💬 Final Advice
Do Not Delay: Document the situation immediately, gather all possible evidence, and confidently contact the official authorities. Your proactive steps are vital to protect your child’s rights and can help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Protecting children’s rights is a priority in any civilized society, and your active involvement ensures the law works for your family and others.
