ISTANBUL – Kamile Kandal, spokesperson for the Istanbul Women’s Assembly of the Democracy and Equality (DEM) Party, called on women to take to the streets on September 1, World Peace Day, emphasizing their role in the struggle for peace and freedom.

 

Amidst the ongoing Peace and Democratic Society Process, September 1 has gained greater significance. Women’s organizations across many cities are preparing for mass events to mark the day, highlighting women’s crucial role in peacebuilding. DEM Party’s Women’s Assembly will hold a rally on August 31 at 3 p.m. in Kadıköy, Istanbul.

 

Kamile Kandal underlined the importance of establishing a parliamentary commission on the peace process, acknowledging challenges ahead. She said: "Peace will face obstacles, but starting this path is invaluable. If this is a year of peace, then on September 1 we must loudly proclaim this to Turkey, the region, and the world.”

 

‘WOMEN’S STRUGGLE IS PART OF THE PROCESS’

 

Kamile Kandal stressed that the peace process is not only about ending war but about societal transformation. She criticized the patriarchal system that fails to protect women and children, restricts women’s rights, and confines them to traditional roles. "We fight against this, and a climate of peace supports that struggle. War fuels violence; peace nurtures a culture of peace which will benefit women," she added.

 

‘THE COMMISSION MUST LISTEN TO WOMEN’

 

Highlighting women’s essential role in peacebuilding, Kamile Kandal called for inclusive dialogue: "The commission must represent not only the government and Kurdish groups but all social sectors and opposition parties. Women’s voices, from activists to feminists, must be heard to build a peace centered on women’s rights.”

 

‘A CALL TO WOMEN ON SEPTEMBER 1’

 

Gonca Yangöz, a DEM Party Women’s Assembly member, emphasized that women will continue their fight for freedom and peace in organized and public ways. She invited all women, students, young people, domestic workers, LGBTQ+, to join the rally and stand united for a free and peaceful life together.

 

MA / Yeşim Tukel