In December 2023, some 470 employees at Özak Tekstil, one of Turkey’s largest apparel manufacturers, supplying for Levi Strauss & Co. among other international brands, engaged in a strike outside their factory in Urfa, the capital of Şanlıurfa Province.

A few months ago, employees began withdrawing from the factory-approved union, Öz İplik-İş, and signing up to Birtek-Sen as they claim the former failed to address their complaints, which include harassment and violence against at women.

Since the strikes began on 27 November 2023, security forces have allegedly attacked demonstrators with water cannons, pepper spray, riot shields and batons and 20 people have been arrested.