A Strong Collaboration for Women and Children in Bornova
Protocol Signed with BAYETAV
A cooperation protocol was signed between Bornova Municipality and the “Bir Arada Yaşarız Eğitim ve Toplumsal Araştırmalar Vakfı” (BAYETAV – We Live Together Foundation for Education and Social Research) to carry out rights-based, inclusive, and sustainable programs for women and children living in Bornova. The protocol was signed by Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki and BAYETAV Secretary General Dr. Bülent Şık.
The agreement aims to implement comprehensive initiatives focusing on women’s and children's rights, equality, education, and protection. Mayor Ömer Eşki and Dr. Bülent Şık formalized the partnership during the signing ceremony.
“Women and children are the most sacred, yet the most disadvantaged”
Speaking at the ceremony, Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized the challenges faced by women and children in Türkiye:
“Unfortunately, we are compelled to sign such protocols because women and children—despite being our most sacred—remain the most disadvantaged. Due to both their lack of access to education and exposure to violence, we have become a country where women and children must be given special protection. Protocols like this are important, but what truly matters is elevating our country to a level of civilization where such agreements are no longer needed. I hope future generations will achieve this on the path we are paving today.”
“I hope this protocol leads to meaningful outcomes”
BAYETAV Secretary General Dr. Bülent Şık highlighted the value of the collaboration:
“I hope this cooperation protocol benefits all the people of Izmir. Women, children, and especially the elderly are under tremendous pressure and hardship under the current economic and political conditions. As a foundation, we are committed to working with all disadvantaged groups, especially in the field of education. I sincerely hope this protocol will pave the way for very positive developments.”
Comprehensive Programs for Women and Children to Begin
Under the protocol, a wide range of initiatives will be launched in Bornova, including:
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Workshops and training programs for women
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Gender equality projects
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Activities aimed at combating violence against women
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Psycho-social support programs for children
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Educational workshops and rights-based training sessions
Clear and Strong Division of Responsibility
As part of the cooperation:
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Bornova Municipality will provide facilities, social spaces, promotional support, personnel, and will conduct monitoring and evaluation processes.
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BAYETAV will contribute its expertise in women’s and children’s rights by developing content, implementing activities, and providing technical consultancy.