The Women’s Commission of the Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality Council issued a statement on the occasion of 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Emphasising institutional responsibility, the statement noted: “A city where women are emancipated is a city where rights and justice truly take root.”

The 16th sitting of the Municipality Council’s November meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Council Chair Evin Yelboğa, with council members in attendance.

Following the discussion of agenda items, a statement was delivered by the Council Women’s Commission in relation to 25 November. The statement was read out by Women’s Commission member Canan Efe Şahin.

Women’s Commission statement

Şahin noted that 25 November is a significant date that underscores the fact that violence against women is a structural problem rooted in gender inequality, and highlighted the responsibility of institutions to pursue preventive, protective, supportive and accountable policies. She said:

“In this context, our priority is to increase the effectiveness of mechanisms aimed at preventing violence and to ensure the continuity of institutional practices that safeguard women’s rights and freedoms. Combating violence against women is only possible through the resolute implementation of legislation, strengthening the accessibility of reporting pathways and support services, and ensuring effective inter-institutional coordination.”

‘We Are Steadfast in Upholding Our Institutional Responsibility’

Şahin said that, as local authorities, protecting women’s right to life and safety, increasing public awareness, and embedding an equality perspective across all areas of service provision are among their core responsibilities.

“Cooperation with women’s organisations, equality-focused planning and sustainable institutional policies will continue to be indispensable components of this struggle. Within our service approach grounded in gender equality, we are steadfast in upholding our institutional responsibility, and we regard it as our fundamental duty to build a city in which women can lead safe, equal and free lives. Because we know that a city where women are emancipated is a city where rights and justice truly take root,” she said.