Turkey: Activists likely to hold demonstrations in mulitple urban centers from April 26

Event

Civil rights activists are likely to stage protests in Turkish urban centers in the coming days and weeks following the sentencing of several activists April 26 relating to the 2013 Gezi Park protests. Activists in Istanbul plan to gather outside the Chamber of Mechanical Engineers in the Taksim area from 19:00 April 26. Likely locations for protests in other cities include central squares and outside government facilities, including courthouses.

Additional police will almost certainly deploy to monitor all protests that materialize. Related security measures, such as possible road closures and movement restrictions, could lead to localized transport disruptions in surrounding areas. Clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out, particularly if participants attempt to breach any security cordons; police could resort to the use of riot control measures such as tear gas against unruly crowds. Bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence but would face an indirect threat of harm.

Context

An Istanbul court sentenced one activist, Osman Kavala, to life in prison for attempting to overthrow the government for his role in the 2013 Gezi Park protests which expanded into nationwide anti-government civil unrest; seven other activists were sentenced to 18 years for aiding Kavala. Critics, including foreign governments and intergovernmental organizations, claim the charges are politically motivated and in contravention of civil rights. Activists are likely to stage ongoing protests against the sentence in the coming days and weeks.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in protest affected areas.