Istanbul Bilgi University reopens after government reversal

On May 25, 2026, Istanbul Bilgi University resumed operations following a new order issued by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The closure of the private university had originally been mandated on May 22, 2026, under Article 11 of the Higher Education Law No. 2547. Government authorities had initially taken control of the institution, citing investigations into organized crime, money laundering, and tax evasion. The shutdown prompted widespread student protests at the central Santral Istanbul campus, leading to clashes with police, injuries, and several arrests. Although official sources cited legal investigations as the reason for the takeover, the reversal occurred amidst intense student resistance and public pressure. The university hosts approximately 20,000 to 22,000 students and features a significant academic staff. The decision to reopen was formally published in the Official Gazette on May 24, effectively canceling the previous mandate and the appointment of an administrator.