We will support the presence of CSOs in key global civil society events by participating in prominent international platforms. In Turkey, we will conduct field research to better understand public perceptions of civil society and organize the International Conference on Freedom of Association to raise awareness on this fundamental right.
We will closely monitor the civil society agendas of the EU, UN, Council of Europe, OECD, and international CSO networks, and prepare briefing notes to inform all stakeholders about their key actions and publications. We will also translate essential documents (such as reports, resolutions, declarations, principles, codes of practice, action plans, and treaties) into Turkish. In addition, we will organize at least two webinars for CSOs and public sector representatives to provide information on these documents and international standards.
Due to the increasing violations of freedom of association against CSOs in Turkey, we will provide active legal assistance to organizations facing such violations. This will include:
- Providing preparatory support before audits and legal consultation during the audit process,
- Offering legal assistance for appeals against fines and mitigating sanctions,
- Following lawsuits concerning the closure of associations, cases against CSO executives, and administrative lawsuits, and providing legal guidance.
The Lawyers Network, established in the previous period to strengthen the monitoring and advocacy capacity of legal professionals in the civic space, will also continue its work. Within the project, the network’s cooperation will be enhanced through online and in-person meetings, legal monitoring activities will be supported, and capacity-building programs for young lawyers will be organized.