Istanbul authorities restrict women’s protest, close major metro stations

Istanbul authorities on Monday imposed restrictions on planned protests for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, closing metro stations and limiting access to prominent locations in the city.

Metro closures in Istanbul to prevent women’s protests

• Metro Istanbul announced that starting at 3 p.m. local time, key metro stations, including Halic, Sishane, Taksim, Osmanbey, and Sisli/Mecidiyekoy, would be closed until further notice.
• Tram services on the T1 Kabatas-Bagcilar Line will only operate between Eminonu and Bagcilar stations.
• These measures align with a decision by Istanbul’s governor to restrict protests in the Beyoglu district.

Actions stem from ‘unauthorized planned demonstrations’

• Women’s rights groups had announced a series of events to mark Nov. 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
• Istanbul Governor’s Office stated that the events were not authorized and cited public safety concerns for the ban.
• Locations like Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, and surrounding areas were deemed unsuitable for gatherings due to their touristic and diplomatic significance.

Public access restricted in key areas

Beyoglu District Governor’s Office announced the closure of several areas to pedestrian and vehicle traffic:

• Taksim Square and Gezi Park may allow limited controlled access.
• Streets including Istiklal Avenue, Siraselviler Street, and Karakoy Square are closed except for controlled entry.