Turkish authorities have implemented a province-wide ban on public assemblies in Ankara and detained over 100 individuals ahead of the 36th NATO summit. The restrictions, which began on 28 June 2026 and are scheduled to remain in effect through 10 July 2026, have prompted international concern regarding the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The Ankara Governorate announced the 13-day prohibition on all public demonstrations on 22 June 2026, citing “national security” and security measures around the NATO summit. The order specifically restricts movement and assembly in areas designated as “sensitive,” including the summit venue, locations where delegations will be accommodated, and transit routes used by delegations.
Esther Major, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director Research for Europe, stated that the blanket ban represents an “excessive and unjustifiable attack on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression.” She further emphasized that authorities must enable and protect the right to protest and end the use of vague and overly broad national security concerns to detain people without evidence of wrongdoing.
Detentions and Legal Proceedings
The security operation surrounding the summit has resulted in significant arrests. According to a statement issued by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office on 25 June 2026, security forces conducted dawn raids on 23 June 2026 that led to the detention of 225 people. Of those taken into custody, 135 were referred to the court system with requests for pretrial detention. Of these, 103 were remanded, while 26 were placed under judicial control measures, including house arrest. Among those detained are lawyers, academics, and activists. The use of pretrial detention in these cases has been characterized as an “exceptional measure” that cannot be deployed to prevent individuals from exercising protected rights.
Media Accreditation and Access
In addition to the restrictions on public assembly, NATO’s decision to deny accreditation to some journalists and media outlets from Türkiye is a blow to media freedom. Calls have been made for NATO to reverse its stance and enable those who have been excluded to cover the event.
Current Status of Restrictions
The current security measures are set to conclude at 23:59 on 10 July 2026. Until that time, the Ankara Governorate maintains that the restrictions on unauthorized persons and vehicles within sensitive zones are essential. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing monitoring by human rights organizations.
As the summit progresses, attention remains focused on whether the Turkish authorities will adjust the scope of the protest ban or release those arbitrarily detained. Readers are encouraged to monitor official announcements and updates regarding the status of those currently in custody.