Organized by İzmit Municipality on December 5, 2024, “The Launch of Local Equality Action Plan” was hosted by Fatma Kaplan Hürriyet, Mayor of İzmit. The launching meeting was organized to release the work carried out by İzmit Municipality since it signed the CEMR European Charter for Equality of Women and Men in Local Life to the public.
Upon invitation by İzmit Municipality, a member of UCLG-MEWA, Fatih Gökyıldız, Deputy Coordinator of Research, Development, and Projects, and Amir Lütfioğlu, Communication Officer, attended the event on behalf of UCLG-MEWA. Before the event, a meeting was held with the Mayor of İzmit, Fatma Kaplan Hürriyet, and she was informed about the activities of UCLG-MEWA, the work of the committees and its publications.
Speaking at the launch, Mayor Hürriyet emphasized that, as of the Charter Date (November 18, 2021), they have been working on developing inclusive policies across a broad spectrum, ranging from combating violence and employment to urban services and education. Stating that the action plan aims to encourage women’s participation in democratic life and enhance their representation in local governments, Mayor Hürriyet also reflected from a well-attended workshop and field research, which were conducted during the process.
Attracting a strong participation from İzmit Municipality council members, mukhtars, civil society representatives, and citizens, the event once again highlighted the importance of local efforts in promoting gender equality.