Ankara is preparing for significant operational shifts as the city gears up to host the 36. NATO Devlet ve Hükümet Başkanları Zirvesi. Ankara Valisi Yakup Canbolat has issued a formal circular detailing comprehensive measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the summit, which will necessitate adjustments to public services and local activity schedules between July 6 and July 12.
Under the new directives, public institutions located within nine districts—Altındağ, Çankaya, Etimesgut, Gölbaşı, Keçiören, Mamak, Pursaklar, Sincan, and Yenimahalle—will grant administrative leave to most personnel. This leave applies to staff whose roles are not directly linked to the summit’s critical operations, aiming to streamline logistics and security across the capital.
Operational Adjustments and Security Protocols
The circular mandates that all public, social, and cultural gatherings—including exams, symposiums, panels, graduation ceremonies, festivals, and concerts—be suspended across the city during the summit week. These measures are designed to prevent any disruption to the event and ensure that government agencies remain fully focused on supporting the summit’s requirements.
Security units have been tasked with identifying specific “sensitive zones,” including routes used by visiting officials, hotel districts, the Presidential Complex, and the ATO Congresium Congress and Exhibition Center. Within these areas, any events—public or private, indoor or outdoor—that could impede traffic, cause large gatherings, or compromise security will be prohibited. While weddings outside these sensitive areas remain permitted, those within designated zones will be subject to the approval of the respective district governorates.
Looking Ahead
As the summit dates approach, city officials and unit supervisors are expected to monitor the situation closely to ensure that essential public services remain functional despite the reduced workforce. While the current directives provide a framework for the week of July 6–12, it is likely that authorities will issue further updates and specific guidance as security requirements evolve or if new operational needs arise during the summit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which districts are primarily affected by the administrative leave?
The directive applies to all public institutions and organizations located within the borders of Altındağ, Çankaya, Etimesgut, Gölbaşı, Keçiören, Mamak, Pursaklar, Sincan, and Yenimahalle.
Are wedding ceremonies completely banned during the summit week?
No. Weddings outside of the identified sensitive zones (such as routes, hotel areas, and summit venues) remain outside the scope of the ban. Those located within sensitive zones must receive permission from the local district governorate.
Will emergency services continue to operate normally?
Yes. Personnel in vital sectors, including health, security, transportation, infrastructure, communication, fire, and emergency/disaster management, are exempt from the administrative leave and will continue to work.
How will these city-wide adjustments impact your planned activities for the second week of July?
