Non-governmental organisations, including unions and professional associations, held a press statement in Turkey ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March and demanded that it be recognised as a day of paid vacation.
The Confederation of Progressive Trade Unions of Turkey (DİSK) Women’s Comission, the Turkish Medical Association (TTB) Women’s Medicine and Women’s Health Department, the Confederation of Public Employees’ Trade Unions (KESK) Women’s Council and the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB) held a joint press statement regarding regarding International Women’s Day. The meeting was held in TTB’s Central Office.
According to Mesopotamia Agency’s (MA) report, TTB Central Council member Deniz Erdoğdu affirmed the fight against a male-dominant system, both in social life and in working life.
Fight against inequality
Drawing attention to the state’s attitude, which ignores the difficulties women face rather than making social policies to combat inequality, Erdoğdu said insecure and non-unionised types of work were imposed on women.
“We will not give up our lives and rights”, said Erdoğdu, adding, “8 March is a day that is symbolic of the struggle against exploitation and discrimination worldwide”. She also noted that the women’s stuggle became more sensitive in a time when inequality, unlimited consumption, exploitation and poverty are systematised.
Erdoğdu also stated that 8 March should be recognised as a day of paid vacation. Other demands included a call for women to have two days off each month during their menstural period, as well as secure employment for women and policies to decrease unemployment among women.
