A Message of Equality from Bornova on the 100th Anniversary of the Civil Code

“Not Just a Law, but a Vision of Civilization”

The 100th anniversary of the adoption of the Turkish Civil Code was commemorated by Bornova Municipality with an exhibition and panel discussion held at the Uğur Mumcu Cultural and Arts Center. The exhibition, titled “From Darkness to Light: A Nation’s March Toward Equality,” presented photographs illustrating the rights and historic “firsts” gained by Turkish women following the proclamation of the Republic.

“The Civil Code Is the Greatest Revolution of Equality”

Speaking at the exhibition’s opening, Bornova Deputy Mayor Attorney Tansel Ertürk emphasized that the Civil Code is not merely a legal text, stating:
“This law constitutes the foundation of a modern conception of civilization that establishes equality between women and men. It is one of the most progressive steps taken in the social life of our Republic.”

Following the highly acclaimed exhibition opening, a panel discussion was held featuring Attorney Yağmur Yurdakul Özkan, CHP Group Spokesperson of İzmir Metropolitan Municipality and Deputy Chair of the Bornova Municipal Council CHP Group, along with Associate Professor Dr. Beral Alacı.

A Turning Point for Women’s Rights

In her speech titled “The Impact of the Turkish Civil Code on the Legal Status of Women,” Attorney Yağmur Yurdakul Özkan stated that the struggle for women’s rights—from education to political participation—gained legal protection through this law.

“The Civil Code was the first step toward modernization for women. Equality was not achieved overnight, but this law opened the door to transformation. Rights were defined not as a favor granted to women, but as a requirement of being an individual,” she said, highlighting the significance of the process.

Power and Equality from Past to Present

In her presentation titled “The Historical and Social Significance of the Turkish Civil Code,” Associate Professor Dr. Beral Alacı addressed the historical roots of patriarchal structures, noting:
“For many years, legal texts defined power in favor of men. However, the Civil Code represents one of the turning points that altered this balance.”

Alacı also referred to the relatively strong position of women in Central Asian Turkic societies, emphasizing that the cultural foundations of equality can be supported by historical examples.

Mayor Eşki: “The Struggle for Equality Must Move from Law to Life”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki stated that on the 100th anniversary of the Civil Code, they are not merely commemorating this legacy but also reinforcing it in practice.

“We must strengthen the understanding of equality introduced by the Civil Code in every aspect of daily life. In Bornova, we will continue working to ensure that women are more visible and more empowered in public life,” he said.