Labor Day protests in Türkiye: More than 400 arrested during massive police operation in Istanbul
Thousands defied a long-standing ban by attempting to gather in Istanbul’s symbolic Taksim Square for Labor Day, while over 50,000 police officers were deployed to block the demonstration.
On May 1, Istanbul became the focal point of nationwide attention as Labor Day protests unfolded across the city. According to the governor’s office, more than 400 people were detained during the demonstrations, which were organized by labor unions and civil society groups demanding improved workers' rights and expressing opposition to government policies.
Turkish authorities launched a large-scale security operation, deploying over 50,000 police officers throughout the city. Access to central areas, including Taksim Square, was heavily restricted, and public transport routes—such as metro lines leading to the protest site—were suspended. Police used tear gas and roadblocks to disperse crowds attempting to gather in the area.
Taksim Square: A historic symbol of labor movements
Taksim Square remains a key symbolic site for labor and union movements in Turkey. Although public gatherings there have been restricted since 2013—partly due to the deadly 1977 Labor Day incident that left 34 people dead—many groups continue to view it as a historic space for resistance and workers’ advocacy.
Dinushika Dissanayake, Deputy Regional Director for Europe at Amnesty International, noted that Taksim "holds deep symbolic significance for Turkish labor movements." Despite the official ban, demonstrators once again attempted to reach the square, where confrontations with police and arrests were reported.
Protests reflect political tensions after Imamoglu's arrest
This year’s Labor Day protests also reflected ongoing political unrest following the March arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who faces charges of corruption and terrorism. Protesters voiced their support with slogans such as “Imamoglu for President,” denouncing what many see as politically motivated legal actions targeting opposition figures.
In the lead-up to the protests, an Istanbul court ordered the pretrial detention of 50 municipal employees affiliated with Imamoglu’s administration. Authorities also sealed off the municipal building in Sarachane, where large crowds had previously gathered in solidarity. These developments have contributed to growing concerns over political repression in Turkey.
