Turkey: Nevruz gatherings occurring in Diyarbakir March 21

Event

Gatherings marking the Nevruz holiday (Persian New Year) are occurring in Diyarbakir March 21. The main events are taking place in Nevruz Park, but demonstrations and events are likely throughout the city. Participation is in the tens to hundreds of thousands. Related gatherings are likely in additional Turkish cities.

Additional police are deployed throughout the city. Heightened security measures and large numbers of people are causing business and transport disruptions across the city, particularly around Nevruz Park. Security services are reportedly restricting access to Nevruz Park and using tear gas as part of crowd control measures. Additional skirmishes are likely in Diyarbakir for the duration of March 21, particularly if activists attempt to breach any security cordons.

Advice

Allow additional time for travel in Diyarbakir March 21. Avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for clashes. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.