"Quota For Women is Crucial But Flawed”

Parliamentary commission on constitution drafting held talks on “equality” and “children rights” yesterday. The draft mentioned “quotas” for the first time. One of the statements ensured the protection of women’s equal participation in every aspect of political administration units with a series of special measures including quota system.  

Commenting on the consensus reached over “equality” issue in constitution drafting, KA.DER Chairwoman Çiğdem Aydın told bianet that they welcomed the decision with great satisfaction even though they found flaws regarding the measures against quota practice. 

“The point we reached is very satisfactory. Of course, it is still being drafted and we would like to see somethings changed. 

“For example, we believe that the expression ‘equal with men’ to be changed. Because we believe that this version leaves men as a norm here. Also, we would like to see the expression ‘the expression ‘special measures can be taken with more precise and binding judgments’ instead of ‘special measures’ only.

“The third article of the same draft also cites that the issue over sexual orientation of LGBT people could not appear but on the explained article. We are posing a hesitation here. 

"However, we are still having a great satisfaction from this version of the draft. We have come to a very far point and it is still possible to make it perfect since it is still being drafted. It is very important because it will produce the idea that quota systems must be in every aspect of administration. It is also envisioning quotas in many aspects.” (EA/BM)

* Click here to read the original article in Turkish.