Launching the 2023 report: "Gender Equality in the Turkish Energy Sector: Women's Employment - Global and Local Dynamics"
The Turkish-German Energy Partnership’s workshop on 31st July, presenting the 2023 report "Gender Equality in the Turkish Energy Sector: Women's Employment - Global and Local Dynamics," proved to be a significant milestone in advancing discussions on gender equality within the industry. The event was marked by the passion and enthusiasm of its participants, who engaged deeply with the topics at hand.
The workshop featured powerful keynote speeches from Beatrix Massig, Fundamental issues of Bilateral Climate and Energy Cooperation; Cooperation in North America, East Asia, Oceania and Türkiye, Prof. Itır Erhart, Dean, Faculty of Communication, Bilgi University, and Sedef Budak, Founder President, Turkish Women in Renewables and Energy (TWRE) and the Green Collar Women Association (GCWA). Their insights, along with the comprehensive presentation by Dr. Buket Teneke Oduncu, Dr. Zafer Cakmak, and Bilun Elmacıoğlu of the Green Collar Women Association, shed light on the critical issues surrounding gender equality in the energy sector. The presentation highlighted the findings of both qualitative and quantitative research, offering a thorough examination of the current landscape.
Attendees from Türkiye, Germany, and other international communities brought diverse perspectives to the table, particularly in response to the recommendations outlined in the report.
These recommendations include:
- Establishing Gender Equality Policies within Companies: Developing clear policies, offering training, ensuring transparency, and fostering leadership commitment to promote a more inclusive work environment.
- Encouraging Female Students to Enter the Sector: Implementing training programs, scholarships, and mentorship initiatives to attract more women to the energy field.
- Raising Awareness for Gender Equality: Organising seminars, internal campaigns, and utilising digital platforms to maintain a focus on gender equality.
- Expanding Civil Society Activities: Collaborating with NGOs to broaden awareness and support for gender equality efforts.
- Periodic Data Collection and Evaluation: Regularly monitoring and evaluating gender equality metrics to develop effective policies.
- Promoting Internationalisation: Encouraging global collaborations and networks to share best practices and strategies.
The event emphasised the importance of continued efforts to promote inclusivity and equity within the energy sector. From the response of the participants it was clear that the commitment to driving meaningful change remains strong.