Turkey: Further anti-government protests possible in Istanbul and Ankara through late November /update 1

Event

Further anti-government protests are possible in Istanbul and Ankara through late November, following large protests in these cities Nov. 23. Demonstrators have been denouncing deteriorating economic conditions in the country, including the decline in the value of the Turkish lira, and demanding the government resign. Additional demonstrations are possible in Ankara's Cankaya District and in Istanbul's Kurtulus and Kadikoy districts, including near Taksim Square. Participants may also protest outside Central Bank offices and government buildings in both cities.

Authorities will deploy a heavy security force presence to monitor related demonstrations. Riot police responded to the protests in Istanbul's Kurtulus District on Nov. 23, while several student protesters were arrested during protests in Ankara. Large or impromptu gatherings and associated security measures could cause localized traffic disruptions in affected areas. Clashes between security forces and demonstrators cannot be discounted.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services.