Women's Human Rights in Türkiye

Women's Human Rights in Türkiye: Localised Transfer of Gender Equity Norms examines how global gender equality norms are translated, contested, and implemented within complex domestic political and cultural contexts.

Focusing on the relationship between Türkiye and the United Nations human rights system in Geneva, this book traces the journey of women’s human rights from international norm creation to domestic implementation. Through an analytical framework centered on structures, institutions, and agency, it explores the tensions that emerge when universal gender equality agendas encounter the country level realities of an illiberal democracy and a predominantly Muslim society. The book looks into the contrasting trajectories of women’s rights in Türkiye, explaining why progress in areas such as women’s economic empowerment has continued while efforts to combat violence against women have faced significant resistance, culminating in Türkiye’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention in 2021. By bridging global governance processes and domestic political dynamics, the book highlights the importance of multilevel cooperation, local ownership, and strategic partnerships between international actors and civil society organizations in achieving meaningful and sustainable change.

This book will appeal to scholars and students of gender studies, human rights, international relations, public policy analysis, and Turkish politics, as well as policymakers, practitioners, and advocates working to advance gender equality in politically complex and rapidly changing environments.