Despite the ban on public demonstrations in the Beyoğlu district, many women gathered near Taksim Square, chanting and dancing in defiance. Heavily armed police officers stood by, equipped with water cannons, while authorities blocked roads to prevent the demonstration.

Feminist Night March Against Erdoğan’s “Family Year”

One of the key points of contention was Erdoğan’s recent declaration of 2025 as the “Year of the Family.” Protesters condemned the idea that a woman’s role should be confined to marriage and motherhood.

Banners read: “Family will not chain us” and “We will not sacrifice ourselves for the family”, reflecting their opposition to government policies that they say restrict women’s rights.

Activists also accused the Turkish government of failing to address violence against women, including the alarming number of femicides. The Turkish organization “We Will Stop Femicide” reports that 394 women were murdered by men in 2024 alone.

Erdoğan’s Controversial Withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention

This protest comes in the wake of Erdoğan’s 2021 decision to withdraw Turkey from the Istanbul Convention, a European treaty aimed at protecting women from domestic violence. Many see this move as a major setback for women’s rights in the country.

Despite government attempts to suppress the movement, Turkish women continue to resist, demanding freedom, safety, and equality.