(Constantinople) Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district authorities have imposed a 24-hour ban on all events, starting at 8 a.m. on March 8, International Women’s Day, citing concerns over public order. This decision affects the planned Feminist Night March, which was scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Sıraselviler Avenue.
According to a statement from the Beyoğlu District Governor’s Office, the ban includes meetings, demonstrations, press statements, leaflet distribution, and sit-in protests. The officials justified the ban by stating that the event “may lead to actions that could disrupt public order and social peace,” referencing Article 17 of the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations.
In addition to the event ban, stringent security measures will be implemented from 12 p.m. onwards. Key areas such as Taksim Square, Gezi Park, İstiklal Avenue and its side streets, Tünel Square, Sıraselviler Avenue, Karaköy Square, and their vicinities will be closed to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
This practice has become routine for the Beyoğlu Governor, who regularly prohibits public demonstrations on significant occasions like International Women’s Day and Pride Week. Despite similar restrictions last year, the 2024 Feminist Night March proceeded amidst protest bans and road blockages.
Saturday, March 08, 2025, 01:35 am
Source: Duvar English