Izmir Authorities Ban 14th Pride Parade, Bar Association Files Lawsuit

The authorities of Izmir Province have banned all events planned as part of the 14th Izmir Pride Parade. The ban is in effect from 8:00 AM on June 27 to 11:59 PM on June 28.

The governor’s office stated that the restrictions were introduced to ensure “public order,” “general security,” “public health,” and “general morality.” The ban covers any gatherings, marches, press conferences, setting up stands, distributing leaflets, protests, and festivals in open areas within the province. The authorities’ statement claims that LGBT events could provoke a public reaction and disrupt peaceful coexistence.

The decision was made based on Article 11 of the Provincial Administration Law No. 5442 and Article 17 of the Law on Meetings and Demonstrations No. 2911.

In response, the Izmir Bar Association filed a lawsuit demanding a stay of execution of this decision. The organization noted that Article 34 of the Turkish Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly without prior permission. According to the lawyers, it is the administration’s duty to ensure the safety of citizens exercising their rights, rather than restricting them. The bar association emphasized that the ban contradicts the Constitution, international conventions, and the principle of the rule of law.