City Politics Update: Why Local Government Matters for Istanbul Residents

Istanbul's city council has approved a new budget that allocates 1.2 billion Turkish lira for infrastructure development in the earthquake-prone districts of Kagithane and Sultangazi. This move is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the city's longstanding earthquake risk, which was highlighted by the devastating 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquake.

The approval of this budget comes at a critical time for Istanbul, as the city is still reeling from the economic impact of high inflation and a struggling lira. With prices for basic goods like bread and milk increasing by over 20% in the past year, many residents are feeling the pinch. The new budget aims to mitigate some of these effects by investing in local communities and supporting small businesses. For example, the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce has launched a new initiative to provide low-interest loans to entrepreneurs in the historic Sultanahmet district.

Community Impact

In neighbourhoods like Beyoglu and Kadikoy, the effects of the city's political struggles are being felt deeply. The Bosphorus development controversy, which has pitted the AKP government against Mayor Imamoglu and local residents, has left many wondering about the future of their communities. The Istanbul Planning Agency has reported that over 50% of residents in these areas are opposed to the development plans, citing concerns about gentrification and environmental impact. Meanwhile, organisations like the Turkish Foundation for Waste Reduction are working to promote sustainable practices and reduce the city's carbon footprint.

According to data from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the city's population has grown by over 10% in the past five years, with many new residents coming from Syria and other countries in the region. This influx has put a strain on local services, including healthcare and education. However, initiatives like the Istanbul Refugee Support Program, which provides language classes and job training to refugees, are helping to facilitate integration and community building. As of June 2026, the program has supported over 5,000 refugees in finding employment and accessing essential services.

As the city looks to the future, residents can expect to see significant changes in the coming months. The new budget is set to be implemented by the end of the summer, with many projects slated to begin in the fall. In the meantime, residents can get involved by attending community meetings and participating in public forums. The next meeting of the Istanbul City Council is scheduled for August 15, and will be held at the Istanbul Congress Center in the Harbiye district. By staying informed and engaged, Istanbul residents can help shape the future of their city and ensure that the needs of their communities are being met.