Turkiye: LGBTQ activists hold Pride Parade in Istanbul June 25 amid increased security measures

Event

LGBTQ activists are staging a Pride Parade in central Istanbul on June 25. Authorities have taken measures to restrict attendance at the event, as well as to prevent the passage of the parade through certain areas. Metro trains are reportedly not stopping at the Sishane and Taksim stations of the Yenikapi-Haciosman Metro Line, and the F1 Taksim-Kabatas Funicular Line is closed. Police have closed Taksim Square to pedestrians. Earlier restrictions around Istiklal Street have been lifted. An increased police presence remains noticeable in the area. Police have arrested around 40 LGBTQ activists.

Heightened security measures and related localized disruptions will likely persist in the area through at least the late afternoon. Further arrests are possible. Although the event has remained largely peaceful, low-level scuffles between participants and police remain possible. Any violence presents an incidental risk to bystanders.

Advice

Consider avoiding the area if operating in downtown Istanbul June 25. Allow additional time to reach destinations near event locations. Heed the instructions of security personnel.