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May Day in Turkey: Mass Detentions Near Taksim, Large Rallies Elsewhere

 

International Workers' Day demonstrations across Turkey on May 1st presented a stark contrast between heavy-handed police intervention in central Istanbul and large, permitted rallies held in other designated areas of the city and the capital, Ankara. While authorities allowed thousands to gather in Istanbul's Kadıköy district and Ankara's Tandoğa Square, they forcefully prevented any attempts to reach the historically significant Taksim Square in Istanbul, leading to mass detentions. Reports from Turkish news outlet T24 detailed the police blockade of a march from Şişli towards Taksim, resulting in around 400 arrests, while also covering the large, sanctioned gatherings where unions, NGOs, and political parties convened in Kadıköy and marched to Tandoğan Square in Ankara.

The focal point of contention remained Taksim Square, a traditional venue for May Day rallies imbued with historical significance, particularly remembering the 1977 massacre where dozens were killed during demonstrations. The Turkish government has banned May Day celebrations in Taksim for years, citing security concerns. This year was no different, with extensive security measures implemented across central Istanbul.

Groups attempting to defy the ban and march towards Taksim from areas like Şişli encountered significant police resistance. Images and reports showed riot police deploying barricades, using tear gas, and physically confronting demonstrators. The Istanbul Governor's office confirmed detentions, with T24 reporting the figure reached approximately 400 individuals who were apprehended while trying to breach police lines or participating in unauthorized marches aimed at Taksim. These clashes underscored the ongoing tension between demonstrators asserting their right to assemble in the symbolic square and authorities determined to enforce the ban.

In sharp contrast, officially sanctioned events proceeded largely without incident. On Istanbul's Asian side, thousands gathered in the Kadıköy district. Labor unions, civil society organizations, and various political parties marched towards Rıhtım (Quay) Square, carrying banners and chanting slogans focused on workers' rights, economic justice, and democratic freedoms. Reports noted a festive, albeit politically charged, atmosphere, with participants voicing solidarity messages, including greetings to Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and jailed politician Selahattin Demirtaş. This demonstrated that while access to Taksim was denied, authorities permitted large-scale demonstrations in alternative, designated locations within the city.

Similarly, in the capital city of Ankara, major trade union confederations, political parties, and numerous NGOs organized a march culminating in Tandoğan Square (now officially Anadolu Square). Thousands participated, walking designated routes under police supervision. The rally featured speeches addressing labor issues and inflation, calling for greater political participation and respect for fundamental rights. The orderly procession in Ankara further highlighted the government's strategy of channeling May Day activities towards pre-approved venues away from historically contested sites like Taksim.

The dual nature of May Day 2024 in Turkey—characterized by suppression near Taksim and sanctioned rallies elsewhere—reflects the country's complex landscape of public assembly and political expression. While workers and activists successfully voiced their demands in permitted zones, the continued closure of Taksim Square and the forceful response to those attempting to reach it remain potent symbols of the restrictions placed on certain forms of public dissent.

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