Over 50 Detained at Banned Istanbul Pride March

Turkish police detained more than 50 people, including activists, lawyers, and journalists, during a banned LGBTQ+ Pride parade in Istanbul. Authorities have prohibited Istanbul Pride since 2015, citing public safety and the protection of 'family values,' and this year’s event saw a heavy police presence, blocked venues, and clashes between police and marchers. President Erdogan and his government have escalated anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and have declared 2025 the 'Year of the Family,' intensifying their stance against the LGBTQ+ community. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, warn that such rhetoric and actions are fostering discrimination and violence. Despite official bans and crackdowns, small groups of activists continue to mark Pride Week, underscoring broader concerns about freedom of assembly and expression in Turkey. The crackdown comes as other European cities, such as Budapest, have seen large Pride turnouts despite restrictions.