Support for women muhtar candidates ahead of local elections

The Global Equality and Inclusion Network (KAPI) has taken action to empower and increase the number of female muhtar candidates across Turkey in the upcoming 2024 local elections. The community is planning intensive efforts in seven regions of Turkey.

Before the upcoming local elections in Turkey, female representation in the muhtar institution stands at only 2.24%.

KAPI spokesperson Ayşe Kaşıkırık says that female muhtars create a 'sense of capability' for women considering entering politics in the future.

She adds, "They also increase sensitivity to the problems of women and girls in their neighborhoods. For instance, Dilek Demir, one of the six female muhtars in Diyarbakır, placed a suggestion-complaint box on the walls of the muhtar's office on her first day in office to prevent the grievances of women and provide assistance to those in need. Through these reported complaints, she saved 40 girls from early marriage."

KAPI also announced plans for comprehensive training and social media campaigns for potential female candidates. The aim is to inform women who intend to run in the elections about election strategies, communication techniques, and gender equality issues.

Among the examples highlighted by KAPI for the sustainability of the project are Dilek Demir from Diyarbakır, Defne Berivan Demir from Siirt, and Fatma Türkan from Batman. These female muhtars are contributing to breaking down stereotypes and providing concrete solutions to the problems of women and girls at the local level.

KAPI

KAPI The Global Equality and Inclusion Network (KAPI) was established in Istanbul on April 3, 2021, on the 91st anniversary of women gaining the right to vote and be elected to local governments in Turkey.

The group campaigned for the election of more female muhtars during the interim muhtar elections held on June 6, 2021.(EMK/PE)