From 6-8 March in Ankara, 38 lawyers from the several bar associations and civil society representatives (34 women, 4 men) gained valuable knowledge and skills on key legal strategies to effectively use litigation as a powerful tool to protect and promote women’s rights in Türkiye.

The trainings highlighted how strategic litigation can drive systemic change. By explaining how to select cases that could set legal precedents, influence public opinion, and promote legislative reform, the sessions empowered lawyers and civil society actors to tackle the root causes of gender inequality.

Participants also deepened their understanding on strategic litigation tools at the international level through interactive sessions. The practical exercises, including amicus curiae interventions, enabled participants to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

One participant noted, "What I have learnt about the ECHR and strategic litigation has made a significant contribution to my advocacy work. In particular, the right to participation of civil society organisations in third party interventions has been very enlightening.”

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“. It contributes to enhancing accessibility and quality of legal aid services for women and supporting key stakeholders, including civil society, as well as increasing legal awareness and literacy among women in Türkiye.