As many as 130 Roma women across Türkiye have gained the tools and confidence to claim their rights and access essential support services thanks to a series of training sessions held from 6-29 November. These sessions, designed to remove barriers to justice and build trust in the legal system, were organised in co-operation with bar associations and municipalities. They took place in eight locations: Gaziantep, Edirne, Istanbul, Izmir, Manisa, Samsun, Tekirdag, and Zonguldak.
The initiative targeted Roma women facing multiple forms of discrimination, with a particular focus on survivors of domestic violence. According to one trainer, many participants initially expressed reluctance to seek legal remedies due to a lack of trust in protection mechanisms in the system. By raising awareness about their rights and the justice system, the sessions provided participants with vital knowledge and confidence. One trainer described the experience as "an eye-opening event," highlighting its transformative impact on attendees.
Local lawyers selected as trainers participated in a preparatory programme, integrated best practices from similar initiatives and featured guidance from the Zero Discrimination Association on effective communication with the Roma community. The association also shared insights into tackling specific legal challenges, equipping trainers with the skills and sensitivity necessary for meaningful engagement.
The initiative's success has paved the way for sustained efforts to empower women in Türkiye. One trainer reported that local bar associations and municipalities plan to continue organising similar training sessions, ensuring the long-term impact and sustainability of the project.
The training sessions were organised by the joint European Union/Council of Europe projects “Fostering Women’s Access to Justice in Türkiye,” * and the European Union/Council of Europe Joint Programme “Promoting good governance and Roma empowerment at local level (ROMACTED II)”.
*The action “Fostering women's access to justice in Türkiye” is part of the European Union and Council of Europe’s joint programme "Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”.
