Bornova Municipality Launches Model Partnership for Women’s Human Rights

Bornova Municipality has taken a significant step in advancing women's legal awareness and empowerment by signing a protocol with The Foundation for Women’s Human Rights – New Solutions Association and the Izmir Women’s Solidarity Association for the Women’s Human Rights Training Program (KİHEP). The program will be implemented in neighborhood centers throughout Bornova and will be free of charge and open to all women over the age of 18, without discrimination. Mayor Ömer Eşki stated that the partnership would contribute to women playing a more active role in social transformation.

The three-party protocol marks an important milestone for raising awareness among women about their rights and strengthening their role in society. Mayor Eşki described the collaboration as follows:

“Ensuring access to and awareness of women’s human rights is not only crucial for women but for the transformation of society as a whole. With KİHEP, we will support women’s local organizing, empowerment, and solidarity — standing by them at every level from neighborhood centers to counseling units.”

“We Are Determined to Empower Women”

At the signing ceremony, Bornova Municipality Deputy Mayor Ahmet Tokem emphasized that the program would be implemented in most of Bornova’s 45 neighborhoods, stating:

“We are bringing this comprehensive educational initiative to Bornova to increase awareness of women’s individual rights.”

KİHEP Brings 30 Years of Experience to Bornova

Gülşah Seral, an advisor from the Women for Women’s Human Rights – New Solutions Association, noted that the timing of the protocol coincided with the 30th anniversary of the program:

“We wish we lived in a Turkey where such a program was no longer necessary,” she said, expressing hope and reflection.

Project advisor Hande Yüksel highlighted that they have reached over 20,000 women in 60 cities since 1995, and that Bornova marks their 22nd municipal partnership:

“After İzmir Metropolitan Municipality, we now proudly partner with Bornova Municipality. This cooperation is incredibly valuable for reaching and supporting more women.”

Seher Gündoğan, President of the Izmir Women’s Solidarity Association, added:

“We are very excited to implement this program in Bornova. Together, we will touch the lives of women.”

What Does KİHEP Offer?

The Women’s Human Rights Training Program (KİHEP) consists of 16 interactive sessions, aiming to help women:

• Understand their human rights

• Improve their legal literacy

• Build self-empowerment

• Create local solidarity networks

The trainings follow feminist principles, are non-hierarchical, and center around participants’ personal experiences.

Full Support from Bornova Municipality

As part of the protocol, Bornova Municipality will:

• Encourage its female staff to take part in KİHEP Group Facilitator Trainings

• Direct women to the program through Women’s Counseling Centers and neighborhood centers

• Provide access to educational materials

• Offer appropriate venues and technical support

• Guarantee the formation of at least one group annually

The program is completely free and open to all women over 18, regardless of background or identity.