Turkey introduces chemical castration for sex offenders

Sex offenders are obliged to join treatment programmes under the new regulation

Turkish deputies convene at the parliament in Ankara (ADEM ALTAN/AFP/Getty Images)

Turkey is introducing treatment to lower or eliminate the sexual drive of those convicted of sex offences.

Individuals convicted of sex offences may be chemically castrated while they are serving time or during the control period if they are conditionally released.

The regulation was published in the Official Gazette on Wednesday, 26 July.

"Convicts for whom medical [castration] has been ordered may be sent to the related medical establishment if necessary,” the new regulation reads, according to a translation by Hurriyet Daily News.

The regulation also says further punishments will be given to non-compliant convicts.

Under the new regulation, sex offenders are obliged to join treatment programmes.

They are also barred from approaching the area where their victim works or lives, and cannot work in an environment where they would be in contact with children.

The regulation will not apply to those under 18.