Author: Serdar Imren

In a strategic push for the presidency, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu embarked on a series of public rallies across Turkey, culminating in a vibrant event in Antalya on March 9. These gatherings, part of a campaign leading up to his party’s primary election on March 23, showcased not only his political ambitions but also highlighted organizational challenges encountered during public engagements. As the leading candidate for the Republican People’s Party (CHP), İmamoğlu’s speeches resonated with issues of economic hardship, particularly within Antalya, igniting fervent support as well as frustrations amid the crowd. Throughout the day, he addressed both the pressing…

A wave of protests erupted in Turkey’s major cities, driven by Alawite organizations condemning attacks on Alawite communities in several regions of Syria, particularly Latakia, Tartus, and Hama. Despite a planned demonstration outside the Syrian Consulate in İstanbul being thwarted by police on March 9, demonstrators convened in nearby parks to voice their concerns. The protests reflect long-standing tensions in the region regarding the treatment of minority communities and the broader humanitarian crisis in Syria. Article Subheadings 1) General Overview of the Protests 2) Protests in Adana and Hatay 3) Mass Gathering in Samandağ 4) Background of Alawite Community Tensions…

On March 8, 2025, a significant Feminist Night March occurred in Beyoğlu, Istanbul, drawing thousands of participants despite police restrictions. Following the event, law enforcement detained over 100 women and LGBTI+ activists, citing the chanting of “banned slogans” as justification for their actions. The event’s aftermath has sparked considerable debate about freedom of expression, the rights of activists, and police conduct during public demonstrations. Article Subheadings 1) Overview of the Feminist Night March 2) Police Detentions and Reactions 3) The Case of LGBTI+ Activist İris Mozalar 4) Public Response and Statements 5) Broader Implications for Activism in Turkey Overview of…

On March 8, the Turkish prosecutor’s office issued an arrest warrant for Ahmet Kurtuluş, the deputy chair of the Kadıköy Municipal Council representing the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP). This warrant followed a contentious exchange during a council meeting that escalated into accusations of “misuse of office” and other charges involving obstruction of freedom of expression. The dispute reflects deeper political tensions in Turkey, particularly the ongoing factional conflicts between the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and opposition parties. Article Subheadings 1) Background of the Council Dispute 2) Details of the Council Meeting Incident 3) Political Reactions and…

Concerns over the escalating violence in Syria have garnered attention from Turkish officials, especially from opposition party leaders. On March 7, Özgür Özel, the chair of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), raised alarms about the clashing factions within the region, specifically between pro-Bashar al-Assad groups and forces affiliated with Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Özel’s statements reflect a growing apprehension regarding civilian safety and minority rights amid ongoing hostilities in Syria. Calling for stronger diplomatic efforts from Turkey, Özel highlighted the dramatic increase in civilian casualties and the looming fear of targeted violence against minority groups, particularly Alawites. The situation in…

On March 8, thousands of women gathered in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul for the annual Feminist Night March, defying a government ban imposed by the Istanbul Governor’s Office. Despite heavy police restrictions, including the blockade of Taksim Square and surrounding areas, demonstrators took to the streets to voice their demands for gender equality and human rights. The protest, marked by slogans like “Woman, life, freedom,” highlighted the ongoing struggles against violence, oppression, and authoritarianism faced by women globally. Article Subheadings 1) The Significance of the Feminist Night March 2) Police Presence and Protest Restrictions 3) Voices of Resistance: Chants…

On March 8, Alevi organizations staged protests in the southeastern provinces of Adana and Hatay, Turkey, following recent attacks on Alevis in northwestern Syria’s Latakia, perpetrated by groups such as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The protests were marked by strong condemnations from leaders within the Alevi community, who decried the escalating violence against their people and accused both the Syrian administration and foreign powers of committing atrocities. As tensions rise, activists called for urgent international attention to the plight of Alevis and the need for immediate intervention. Article Subheadings 1) Overview of Protests in Adana and Hatay 2) Statements from…

On March 8, 2025, women and LGBTI+ individuals gathered in Istanbul’s Taksim area to participate in the 23rd annual Feminist Night March in celebration of International Women’s Day. The event, marked by vibrant demonstrations and powerful chants, aimed to bring attention to ongoing issues of gender inequality, violence, and rights violations faced by marginalized communities. Despite restrictions imposed by authorities, participants expressed their resilience and commitment to the feminist movement through unity and determination. Article Subheadings 1) The Significance of the Feminist Night March 2) Key Moments from the March 3) Responses to Police Restrictions 4) Background on Feminist Activism…

On March 8, 2023, the Saturday Mothers in Turkey commemorated their 1,041st gathering at Galatasaray Square in Istanbul in observance of International Women’s Day. This dedicated group, which has been advocating for justice since 1995, focused their recent vigil on the plight of 19 women who were forcibly disappeared in the 1990s during state-led operations. With strong calls for accountability from the Turkish government, this gathering served as a stark reminder of the unresolved cases of violence against women in Turkey and the ongoing struggle for justice and human rights. Article Subheadings 1) The Background of the Saturday Mothers 2)…

On March 8, International Women’s Day, hundreds of women gathered in Diyarbakır’s İstasyon Square to demonstrate for women’s rights and freedom. The demonstration, organized by the Free Women’s Movement (TJA) and the Diyarbakır Network for Combating Violence (DAKAP), featured traditional attire as women marched through the city carrying banners with powerful messages. The event marked a significant moment as it was the first time in eight years Diyarbakır celebrated with elected mayors rather than government-appointed trustees. Article Subheadings 1) Women’s Day Celebration: A Gathering for Change 2) Voices of Leadership: Women Politicians Take the Stage 3) The Call for Peace:…