21 Jun 2022 | 10:22 AM UTC
Turkey: Members of the media will protest in Izmir, Istanbul, and Ankara June 21-22
Members of the Turkish media to protest in Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir June 21-22. Increased security, localized disruptions likely.
Event
Organizations and unions representing journalists and other members of the media plan to protest in major cities in Turkey June 21-22. Organizers are denouncing a number of parliamentary bills that the media alleges will, if signed into law, constitute censorship of the media. The following gatherings are expected to be the most disruptive:
June 21
Izmir: Rally in Konak Square from 13:00
Istanbul: Rally in Taksim-Tunel-Beyoglu area from 18:00
June 22
Ankara: Rally at the Grand National Assembly of Turkey from 13:00
While participation levels are unclear, attendance could reach the low thousands, particularly in Ankara. Smaller gatherings are likely in other urban centers on the affected days. Authorities will deploy additional police to monitor the gatherings. Large crowds and associated security measures could prompt localized travel disruptions. Metro entryways in the Taksim-Tunel-Beyoglu area in Istanbul may be congested before and after the gathering in the city June 21. Significant violence is not anticipated; however, low-level skirmishes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Avoid the protests as a standard precaution. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time in the affected areas.
