Istanbul news from 2024: Housing crisis, heated mayoral race, brutal crimes
Turkish anti-riot police officers operate during a demonstration to mark the International Day for Elimination of Violences against Women, near the Istiklal avenue in Istanbul, Türkiye, November 25, 2024. (AFP Photo)
The year 2024 was a turbulent year for Istanbul, featuring events that captured global attention and reshaped the city’s trajectory.
From acts of violence to significant political, economic and social developments, Istanbul news this year reflected a city confronting immense challenges while navigating paths for recovery and progress.
- A shocking church shooting in January raised security concerns.
- March’s mayoral election influenced Istanbul’s political trajectory.
- October’s violence against women spurred nationwide protests.
- November’s business expo strengthened global trade connections.
- December brought aviation milestones alongside worsening economic struggles.
Church shooting incident shocks Istanbul
In January, Istanbul news headlines turned grim as a gunman attacked Santa Maria church during a Sunday service in the historic Fatih district, injuring several attendees. The suspect, driven by extremist ideologies, was arrested within hours.
Key facts:
- The attack occurred during a Sunday service attended by dozens of worshippers.
- Authorities increased police patrols near religious centers following the event.
- Religious and political leaders across Türkiye condemned the violence and called for unity.
The tragic event reignited discussions about protecting minority communities and fostering interfaith harmony in Istanbul, a city known for its cultural and religious diversity.
News from Istanbul make it worldwide after Istanbul’s mayoral elections
The Istanbul mayoral election drew widespread attention, with Ekrem Imamoglu securing another term. His victory reflected growing public dissatisfaction with the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), as economic challenges and inflation dominated voter concerns. This election played a crucial role in shaping the city’s political trajectory.
Key election details:
- Imamoglu’s campaign focused on transparency, improved municipal services, and combating corruption.
- The opposition’s success in Istanbul reflected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s declining influence in urban areas.
- Analysts predict that Imamoglu’s continued leadership in Istanbul could bolster the opposition’s prospects in future national elections.
After the elections, several observers noted that Imamoglu’s victory symbolized a demand for accountability and effective governance in a city grappling with rapid growth and economic difficulties.
Political commentators noted that news from Istanbul’s political developments often reflects broader national trends and policies.
Violence against women sparks protests in Istanbul
In October, the brutal murders of two young women, Aysenur Halil and Ikbal Uzuner, shocked Istanbul and the nation, leading to widespread protests. The crimes drew attention to the persistent issue of gender-based violence and renewed demands for stronger enforcement of protective laws.
Key developments:
- Nationwide protests erupted, with demonstrators demanding stricter enforcement of Law No. 6284, which protects women from violence.
- Activists criticized the government for insufficient legal protections and a perceived culture of impunity for perpetrators of violence against women.
- Police interventions at protests led to mass arrests, further fueling public outrage in Istanbul.
The demonstrations addressed systemic failures in tackling violence against women and emphasized the urgent need for legal and societal reforms to ensure safety for all.
International business expo boosts trade potential
The MUSIAD Expo 2024, held in Istanbul, aimed to enhance Türkiye’s economic position by fostering global collaborations and was one of the biggest news from Istanbul this year. Delegates from 88 countries participated, targeting $1 billion in trade deals across 24 sectors, from textiles to advanced technology.
Key aspects of the expo:
- Over 500 foreign procurement delegations strengthened Türkiye’s export connections.
- Discussions included migration’s economic impact and the role of technology in global trade.
- Key trading partners such as Iraq, Algeria, and Malaysia were prominently represented.
Participants noted that Istanbul’s unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses looking to expand their global footprint.
Istanbul Airport becomes global aviation hub
Istanbul Airport set a global standard in 2024, earning recognition as the world’s best-connected airport, which was one of the biggest news from Istanbul this year. Handling over 90 million passengers, the airport is on course to reach an impressive annual capacity of 200 million by 2028, cementing its status as a vital international transit hub.
Key achievements:
- Implemented advanced triple-runway operations, enhancing efficiency and reducing delays.
- Strengthened connectivity with Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, bolstering its strategic importance.
- Ranked as the busiest airport in Europe and ninth globally for aircraft traffic.
The airport’s ongoing expansion is expected to deliver substantial economic gains, reinforcing Türkiye’s prominence in global aviation.
Economic, housing crises dominate Istanbul news in 2024
Soaring rents and rising inflation dominated headlines in news from Istanbul, with the cost of living for a family of four reaching $2,085 monthly—a 60% annual increase. Housing shortages and substandard rental conditions pushed many residents into precarious living situations.
Key statistics:
- Rent prices surged by 117% in 2024, with the average rent for a 1,076-square-foot apartment exceeding $700.
- Essential goods like meat and cooking oil saw sharp price increases, compounding household financial pressures.
- News from Istanbul showed imbalance between wages and living costs forced many families to make difficult choices.
Housing experts have called for comprehensive policy interventions to address affordability and improve living conditions.
News from Istanbul in 2024 revealed a city navigating significant challenges and changes in politics, economy, and society. As 2025 begins, Istanbul continues to confront hurdles while striving for progress.
