IMPACT AREAS
GENDER EQUALITY

THE CHALLENGE
In Türkiye, gender inequality continues to limit opportunities for women and girls across all areas of life. From education and employment to leadership and safety, systemic barriers persist. Social norms, discriminatory practices, and unequal access to resources make it harder for women to reach their full potential.
Despite notable progress in female literacy, significant gaps remain. In 2019, Türkiye’s female-to-male education index stood at just 0.887, falling short of the parity seen in countries with high human development. While more girls are enrolling in school, lingering inequalities in higher education and regional disparities continue to hold many back.
Economic inclusion also remains elusive. Women’s labor force participation was only 34% in 2019, far below the 52–54% average in high-HDI countries. And, while global benchmarks illustrate that educational advancement should narrow income gaps, Turkish women still earn significantly less—on average, only about half the income that women in very high-HDI countries earn.
These stark figures reflect the urgency behind our work. At Turkish Philanthropy Funds, we stand at the forefront of advancing gender equality—challenging deep-rooted disparities across education, economic participation, and decision-making in Türkiye. By addressing both the symptoms and root causes of gender inequality, we empower women and girls to rewrite their futures and build stronger, more inclusive communities.

WHAT WE DO









READY TO TAKE ACTION?
Southeastern Turkey’s children, especially adolescent girls, have faced enormous challenges after the February 2023 earthquakes. Suna’nin Kizlari Children’s Hubs provide safe spaces for education, psychosocial support, arts, sports, and health services—helping girls regain stability, confidence, and hope. Your donation ensures these hubs can reach more children, support families, and create lasting recovery in the communities that need it most.
Gender Equality$5,359 USD / $300,000 USDEvery young woman deserves the opportunity to succeed. The Turkish Association of University Women (TUKD) Istanbul Branch supports female university students from rural areas, helping them thrive academically, socially, and professionally. Through the Friendship Bridge program, students receive not only a monthly grant but also mentorship from donors in their field, providing guidance, career advice, and personal support as they navigate university life in Istanbul.
Gender Equality$525 USD / $138,000 USDTurkishWIN empowers young women across Türkiye with mentorship, skills development, and community support to build careers they love. Your donation helps expand mentoring programs, amplify women’s stories, and create opportunities that remove barriers, nurturing the next generation of Türkiye’s talent.
Gender Equality$8,257 USD / $80,000 USDEvery woman deserves a safe and respectful workplace. In Türkiye, many women working in factories and small businesses face violence, harassment, and lack of awareness of their rights under ILO Convention C190. This project provides interactive training for women and employers, equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to prevent abuse and create equitable work environments. By engaging workers and leadership alike, it transforms workplace culture, strengthens women’s resilience, and ensures that every woman can stand taller, speak louder, and thrive at work.
Gender Equality$0 USD / $40,000 USD

STORIES


































