The demonstrations began at the end of May after the government announced plans to redevelop Gezi park in Istanbul. Protesters say the park is one of the few open and natural spaces in a city of almost 14 million people.
The early protests were called to protect trees from being destroyed. The demonstrations spread across the country as people reacted to the police violence.
One incident repeatedly shown on television news and social media shows a policeman firing tear gas at a woman in a red dress. Some demonstrators now carry pictures of the incident that say, “The more you tear gas us, the bigger we get.”
Protesters also condemned actions aimed at enforcing Islamic rules. One recent law, for example, added restrictions on alcohol use. Protesters see the restrictions as evidence of the government enforcing Islamic values in a democratic and non-religious state.
As many as 1,700 protesters were arrested in about 60 cities during the past week. In Izmir, police raided the homes of Twitter and Facebook users. The charges against those arrested said they had incited crime.
A young demonstrator expressed fears that fighting between government supporters and protesters would divide the Turkish people.
“I think unfortunately we will start fighting with our people, the other side. The other side, their side. But I don't think there's something like the other side. But he's supporting the other side.”
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2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25