Turkish police detain 50 at Istanbul Pride despite ban

On Sunday, Turkish authorities arrested at least 50 individuals, including journalist Muberra Unsal, during a Gay Pride event in Istanbul. The march took place despite a local government ban and the closure of Taksim Square, the city's primary gathering area. Enhanced security measures were implemented around the square, featuring iron barricades, and protests were prohibited in significant locations such as Kadikoy. Subway services were also limited in various central areas. The Turkish Journalists' Union noted that Unsal, who possesses a valid press card, was detained even after identifying herself as a journalist. Protesters rallied with chants like, 'My love, today isn't over yet. We're just getting started. We're not giving up.' The Istanbul Bar Association displayed a banner on Istiklal Avenue stating, 'LGBT is human rights.' While homosexuality is legal in Turkey, President Erdogan has frequently targeted the LGBTQ community, attributing declining birth rates to them.