Stories from Istanbul · Turkey

May Day protests included solidarity messages, with workers gathering in Ankara at Atatürk Culture Front. Participants marched to Tandoan Square carrying flags, banners, and posters. Celebrations in Izmir were held at Gündoğdu Square.

May Day protests occurred across multiple cities, with reports of violence and numerous arrests. Security measures were heightened in some regions due to the demonstrations. Specific details on the number of arrests varied by location.

The court stated that technical records contradicted Bahtiyar's claim of not being present. Bahtiyar had previously received a 4-year, 6-month sentence for destroying evidence, which was overturned by the Court of Cassation.

May Day was celebrated in Ankara, Izmir, Diyarbakir, and Canakkale. Celebrations also took place in Bursa and Corum, with union members gathering. Previously, Taksim Square was banned for May Day celebrations after two years of being permitted.

May Day was celebrated in Kadıköy, with organizers hoping it is the last time they do so in that location. Organizers met with political party leaders and co-chairs of Disk. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of a bloody May Day and Taksim.

Hundreds of people were detained in Istanbul as police closed all roads leading to Taksim Square. The investigation revealed that the perpetrators of the murder of 15-year-old Sevgi Sevil 14 years ago were the victim's father, uncle, and cousin. An investigation is underway into the disappearance of university student Gülistan Doku, who has been missing since January 5, 2020. The investigation is examining all aspects of the incident. Following developments, a statement was released. The statement expressed condolences for workers who died during a sewage project. The source highlighted the role of subcontractors in the incident. The specific nature of the violence was not detailed in the transcript. Clashes erupted between protesters and police, leading to unrest. Authorities responded with force to control the demonstrations.

The AK Party stated that the process is proceeding as it should, following President Erdoğan's remarks. However, the party criticized the PKK's stance, calling it dangerous for the future. Despite minor setbacks, the Dem Party believes the process is still on track.

This inclusion places the Istanbul stock market on a prestigious global list. Borsa Istanbul has been recognized as an exchange by the United Kingdom's Revenue and Customs authority. Borsa Istanbul experienced a mixed reaction following a Supreme Court ruling invalidating customs duties. This ruling significantly impacts the group's revenue, accounting for 40% of its total. There is uncertainty regarding whether Borsa Istanbul will be open for trading on Friday, May 1, 2026. Istanbul authorities closed Taksim Square for May Day. The exchange began the trading day on Thursday, April 2, 2026, with a decline.

The May Day March was inspired by a work written by the world-renowned Russian writer Maxim Gorky. Bertolt Brecht, a famous director, writer, and composer, adapted this work. The song was performed with piano accompaniment. The march took place in Istanbul.

The local robot Dora visited the Ümraniye district governor's office to complete its residency registration. Authorities in Istanbul have requested the swift completion of ongoing natural habitat projects in Tuzla.