Istanbul, March 8 – The 24th Feminist Night March was held in Beyoğlu, Istanbul, on International Women’s Day. Police took extensive security measures in the areas leading to Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue due to the demonstration. It was reported that 5 people were detained during the event.
Extensive Security Measures Taken
Women participating in the Feminist Night March, organized as part of International Women’s Day, gathered on Sıraselviler Street around 7:30 PM. Ahead of this year’s 24th march, police teams took extensive security measures, closing all streets leading to Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue with barricades, restricting both vehicle and pedestrian access.
Brig. Gen. Emir Efe BENLİOĞLU, speaking on behalf of the Istanbul Police Department, stated, “Our priority was to ensure the safety of both the participants and the public. We implemented necessary precautions to prevent any disruptions to public order.”
March Proceeds with Slogans and Statements
The women, carrying banners, chanted slogans for a while before marching towards Cihangir Street. The group read a press statement in Turkish, Kurdish, and Arabic, emphasizing their demands for gender equality and an end to violence against women. The statement highlighted various issues faced by women in society, including economic disparity, domestic violence, and lack of representation.
One of the organizers, Ayşe Demir, stated, “This march is a testament to our ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society. We will continue to raise our voices until our demands are met.”
5 Individuals Detained During the Event
Following the press statement, the demonstration concluded without major incidents. However, it was reported that 5 individuals attempting to access Istiklal Avenue from side streets were detained by police teams. The identities of the detained individuals and the exact reasons for their detention were not immediately disclosed.
According to eyewitnesses, the detentions occurred as the group was dispersing, and those detained were attempting to move into areas that had been cordoned off by the police. The police maintained a strong presence in the area throughout the evening to ensure public order.
The event drew attention to the ongoing discussions surrounding women’s rights and freedom of assembly in Turkey. Activists and human rights organizations have frequently called for greater protection of these rights.
The 24th Feminist Night March in Beyoğlu underscores the persistent efforts of women’s rights advocates to bring about social change and highlight critical issues on International Women’s Day.
