“Bornova is a city transformed by the power of women”

CHP Women’s Branch Chair Asu Kaya examined the social municipal practices in Bornova and emphasized that projects such as Kent Market, Kent Restaurant, and Kent Gardens significantly empower women’s lives. Mayor Ömer Eşki stated that these initiatives represent a rights-based local governance approach rather than charity, while CHP İzmir MP Seda Kaya Ösen noted that the Bornova model serves as an example for women-oriented local policies across Türkiye.

Asu Kaya: “When women’s labor becomes visible, society grows stronger”

CHP Women’s Branch Chair Asu Kaya visited and reviewed the social municipal projects implemented by Bornova Municipality, stating that Bornova has established a local governance practice that is exemplary across Türkiye. Kaya highlighted that projects such as Kent Market, Kent Restaurant, Kent Butcher, and Kent Gardens provide vital relief for low-income citizens.

During her visits, Kaya emphasized that policies easing the burden on women struggling with economic hardship are a priority for the CHP, saying:
“Women’s labor and solidarity are the transformative power of this country. When local governments strengthen women’s participation in production, employment, and public life, they expand not only the economy but also social peace.”

Ömer Eşki: “Not social aid, but the right to a fair life”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki underlined that their understanding of social municipalism is rights-based rather than aid-oriented. Meeting with women producing in the Kent Gardens, Eşki stated that projects supporting women’s participation in economic life in Bornova would continue to expand.

Mayor Eşki said:
“For us, social municipalism means a local living model where no one is left alone and where production and solidarity grow together. We are building a Bornova where women have a stronger presence in production, employment, and decision-making processes.”

Seda Kaya Ösen: “Women-focused local policies give hope to Türkiye”

CHP İzmir MP Seda Kaya Ösen, who also participated in the program, stated that the practices carried out in Bornova are a strong demonstration of a women-focused local policy approach. Ösen said:
“The work being done in Bornova is the concrete, on-the-ground reflection of social municipalism. This model is an experience that gives hope to many cities across Türkiye.”

Projects reviewed on site

The visit program began at Abide-i Hürriyet Square, recently added to the city’s cultural heritage. This was followed by visits to the Kızılay Neighborhood Kent Butcher and Kent Restaurant, Bornova Central Kent Market, EVKA-4 and Pınarbaşı Kent Gardens, and the Municipal Nursery. The delegation met with women producing in the gardens and evaluated the impact of the projects on site.

The program concluded with a visit to the CHP Bornova District Presidency and a meeting with party members.