The UCLG-MEWA Committee on Women (MEWA Women) Presidency and Committee Meeting convened in İzmit on February 13, hosted by İzmit Municipality, and brought together local leaders, municipal experts, and international partners to advance gender equality and inclusive local governance across the MEWA region.
The meeting opened with remarks by Dr. Mehmet Duman, Secretary General of UCLG-MEWA, and Fatma Kaplan Hürriyet, Mayor of İzmit and President of MEWA Women, alongside contributions from Kemal Akgül, Deputy Mayor of Safranbolu Municipality; Dr. Thamer Shobaki, Deputy City Manager for Community Development of Greater Amman Municipality; and Rasha Alshawarbeh, Manager of Queen Rania Parks in Amman. Speakers underlined the importance of women’s political participation, gender mainstreaming in local policies, inclusive service delivery, and women’s economic empowerment as cornerstones of equitable and resilient communities.
Subsequent discussions focused on strengthening women’s representation in local governments and advancing gender-responsive policies throughout the MEWA region. The Committee reviewed its activities for the 2022–2025 term and discussed the draft working plan and proposed activities for the 2025–2028 period, prepared by Elif Serra Ateş, Focal Point of the Committee, highlighting key regional themes, cooperation opportunities, and priority areas for action. Contributions also emphasized the value of peer learning, knowledge sharing, and evidence-based policymaking in advancing local gender equality agendas.
The meeting further featured exchanges on women-friendly city approaches, including international perspectives on urban equality and local experiences from İzmit Municipality, showcasing practical policies and services aimed at supporting women and families at the municipal level. Open discussions enabled participants to share feedback, good practices, and recommendations to strengthen the Committee’s future work.
The Presidency and Committee Meeting concluded with closing remarks reaffirming the shared commitment of MEWA Women members to promoting gender equality, inclusive governance, and meaningful participation of women in local decision-making, while strengthening cooperation among cities to build more just, inclusive, and resilient urban futures across the region.
