Overview

• Over 400 individuals were detained by Istanbul police during May Day protests, according to the Progressive Lawyers Association.
• Authorities maintained a multi-day closure of Taksim Square, blocking access to a key site for demonstrations since the 2013 Gezi Park protests.
• AFP journalists observed dozens of arrests in Beşiktaş and Mecidiyeköy, where unauthorized gatherings occurred despite police roadblocks.
• Union-organized demonstrations with thousands of participants were permitted in two districts on Istanbul's Asian side.
• Protesters and opposition leaders, including CHP's Özgür Özel, continue to demand the release of jailed Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, Erdoğan’s leading political rival.