22 April 2025, İstanbul, Türkiye – Yanındayız Association, CIFAL Istanbul, and Bahçeşehir University came together to formalize their commitment to gender equality and human rights through the signing of an inter-institutional cooperation protocol. The protocol was signed by Ms. Selen Okay Akçalı, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Yanındayız Association, and Prof. Dr. Tunç Bozbura, Vice Rector of Bahçeşehir University.
The protocol aims to reinforce the existing collaboration between the institutions and further deepen their partnership in future projects. Yanındayız Association, a rights-based advocacy organization, is dedicated to ensuring equal participation in society, promoting gender equality, and combating all forms of violence against women and discriminatory behavior. Bahçeşehir University, upholding a zero-tolerance policy against any act that undermines human dignity, shares this mission as a cornerstone of its institutional values.
This newly signed protocol builds upon a strong history of joint initiatives, including seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns conducted in previous years. CIFAL Istanbul, has played a key role in organizing these activities and now aims to expand its efforts even further under this renewed and formalized partnership.
“This cooperation not only strengthens institutional ties but also accelerates our shared efforts in realizing SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17 Partnerships fort he Goals” CIFAL Istanbul stated.
CIFAL Istanbul expresses its sincere appreciation to Yanındayız Association and Bahçeşehir University for their ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive, respectful, and violence-free academic and social environments. Through this protocol, all parties reaffirm their dedication to building a society rooted in equality, solidarity, and mutual respect.
