The Press Council presented the “LGBT display” on TikTok as negative content

In the material published on February 5, 2026, the content distributed on the TikTok platform in Azerbaijan was presented as the “dark side” and in particular the “LGBT display” was shown as content that contradicts ethical values. Hajibey Heydarli, a member of the Board of the Press Council, expressed concern about unethical sharing on the platform and emphasized the possibility of legal action. The open expression of sexual orientation and gender identity was framed as negative and dangerous content.

The material mentioned the “LGBT display” in the same context as nudity and prostitution. Such discourse presents the queer existence as a moral violation and a social threat. As a result, the self-expression of LGBTQI+ people on social media faces the risk of public condemnation and potential legal pressure. However, statements that measures will be taken against “unethical sharing” create vague boundaries and do not clearly indicate the criteria by which queer content will be evaluated.

The expert's speech notes that legal steps can be taken on the platform, and in some countries, bans are imposed on teenagers from accessing TikTok. It is reported that there are such calls in Azerbaijan as well. In this context, associating LGBTQI+ topics with the concept of "negative heroes" can cause queer youth to be in a more vulnerable position in terms of both visibility and safety. While social networks are a place for self-expression and finding community for many queer youth, such rhetoric questions the legitimacy of that space.

The material notes that TikTok's algorithms highlight more "negative" and "unethical" shares. However, the automatic inclusion of LGBTQI+ existence in this category shows how queer identities are presented in public discourse. The problem here is not only platform policy, but also how sexual and gender diversity is framed in public discourse.

The current discussions show that the debates around control over social media and the concept of "morality" can directly affect the freedom of expression of queer people. The key issue for the LGBTQI+ community is protecting their right to exist safely and without being targeted on platforms. The framing of public rhetoric with the language of criminal or moral hazard further complicates the practical enforcement of this right.

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