Women for Women’s Human Rights (WWHR) is a prominent non-governmental organisation that has been advocating for women's human rights, equality, and non-discrimination since its inception in 1993. Inspired by the affirmation of women’s rights as human rights during the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna the same year, WWHR was founded with the aim of promoting and protecting women's rights in Turkey and globally. This independent organisation has significantly influenced the legal landscape and societal attitudes towards women’s rights through persistent activism, advocacy, and networking.
WWHR’s mission is centred on the active and widespread participation of women in establishing and maintaining a democratic, egalitarian, and peaceful social order. By empowering women to become free individuals and equal citizens, WWHR works both nationally and internationally to foster social change. Over the years, the organisation has become a well-known entity not only in Turkey but also across the globe, recognised for its efforts in promoting women's human rights and gender equality.
Contributions to legal reforms and rights awareness
Since its founding, WWHR has contributed to numerous legal reforms in Turkey aimed at enhancing the protection and realisation of women's rights. These reforms have included changes to family laws, penal codes, and labour laws, all geared towards eliminating discrimination and promoting gender equality. WWHR’s advocacy has been instrumental in increasing rights awareness among women, empowering them to claim their rights and participate actively in the social, economic, and political spheres.
WWHR's work extends beyond legal reforms. The organisation has been at the forefront of advancing sexual and bodily rights in Muslim societies, a challenging yet crucial area for achieving comprehensive human rights for women. Through education, advocacy, and partnerships with local and international organisations, WWHR has been able to address deeply ingrained cultural norms and promote progressive changes in attitudes and practices related to women's autonomy over their bodies.
Promoting women’s human rights at the United Nations level
WWHR’s influence reaches the international stage, particularly through its involvement with the United Nations (UN). The organisation has been active in various UN forums, contributing to the global dialogue on women's rights and influencing international policies and resolutions. WWHR's advocacy at the UN level has focused on promoting gender equality and ensuring that women's rights are integrated into broader human rights frameworks.
WWHR's work aligns closely with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5: Gender Equality. By advocating for women's human rights and striving to eliminate discrimination, WWHR directly contributes to the achievement of this goal. The organisation’s efforts in legal reforms, rights awareness, and international advocacy play a crucial role in promoting gender equality and empowering women.
Furthermore, WWHR’s mission and activities resonate with the Global Society's objectives of fostering social justice, peace, and equality. Through its comprehensive approach to women's rights, WWHR supports the establishment of an egalitarian social order, which is essential for achieving sustainable development and global peace. The organisation's work exemplifies the interconnectedness of local and global efforts in addressing gender-based discrimination and promoting human rights.
Women for Women’s Human Rights (WWHR) has made significant strides in advocating for women's human rights, equality, and non-discrimination in Turkey and beyond. Since its founding in 1993, the organisation has been a driving force behind legal reforms, increased rights awareness, and the promotion of women's rights at the international level. By aligning its mission with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the global society's objectives, WWHR continues to be a vital player in the global movement for gender equality and social justice. Through its persistent activism and advocacy, WWHR demonstrates the power of grassroots organisations in effecting meaningful and lasting change for women worldwide.
More information: https://wwhr.org/
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