As I take a moment to sit down and pen these words, my heart is weighed down by an overwhelming blend of emotions: sadness that knows no bounds, frustration that tightens around my chest, and a profound sense of powerlessness that shadows every thought. The recent events unfolding around women’s rights in Türkiye have plunged me into a deep well of despair, a feeling so intense it’s almost palpable.

Despite numerous protests, demonstrations, and cries for justice, the decision to terminate the Istanbul Convention stands as a stark betrayal of women’s safety and rights in Türkiye. This Convention, which served as the primary treaty for combatting violence against women and domestic violence, has been cast aside, leaving women’s safety hanging by a thread. The Istanbul Convention offered a framework for legislative safeguards and clear steps to prevent gender-based violence. It was an essential weapon in the fight against violence toward women. Its elimination sends a dangerous message that the safety and well-being of women are not a priority for those in authority, undermining progress made in the struggle for women’s rights. The decision to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention and the ongoing impunity for perpetrators of violence against women have shaken me to my core. It feels like a betrayal of the basic principles of justice and equality I hold dear. How can it be that in the 21st century, women’s rights are still disregarded and trampled upon?

Every headline detailing yet another femicide or instance of violence against women feels like a dagger to my heart. These stories are stark reminders of the harsh realities faced by women in our society—the fear, the pain, and the injustice that they endure daily. The gravity of these challenges makes it easy for young people like myself to feel overwhelmed and powerless in the face of such entrenched misogyny and systemic injustice. How can I, an individual, make a difference in a system that appears so firmly rooted in inequality? It’s a question that weighs heavily on my mind, filling me with a sense of helplessness.

But even amidst this despair, I refuse to remain silent. I refuse to accept a reality where the rights and dignity of women are disregarded and dismissed. I may not have the power to change the course of events single-handedly, but I can lend my voice to the chorus of those demanding justice and equality. Moving forward, I am committed to doing whatever I can to support the cause of women’s rights—whether through raising awareness, supporting advocacy efforts, or simply standing in solidarity with those who are fighting for change. Every voice matters, and every action counts in the struggle for a more just and equitable society.

We must recognize that the withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention is not just a political decision; it is an assault on the fundamental human rights of millions of women. It strips away the essential safeguards against violence and reduces their protection to mere words without concrete action. By removing this critical safety net, the government has sent a chilling message that protecting women’s lives is no longer a priority. Instead of safeguarding the vulnerable and ensuring justice, they have chosen a path that leaves women exposed to heightened risks.

This decision is a devastating blow to the countless activists, survivors, and advocates who have fought tirelessly to create a safer world. It undermines the painstaking progress made over the years to establish a legal framework for justice and signals a regressive step backward. For many, it feels like the negation of their struggles, the erasure of their voices, and the dismissal of their stories. How can we accept that, in a world increasingly aware of the need for gender equality, women’s lives can be so undervalued?

But even as I reel from the frustration and despair, I am reminded of the unyielding spirit that has characterized the fight for women’s rights throughout history. I am reminded of the countless trailblazers who, despite facing overwhelming odds, persevered in their demand for a better world. Their courage, determination, and solidarity paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today, and their legacy inspires me to believe that progress, though sometimes painfully slow, is possible.

This realization fuels my determination to stand firm and raise my voice. I am inspired by the fierce advocates, resilient survivors, and unwavering allies who refuse to give up. Their dedication to creating a safer, more equitable world motivates me to use my platform, however small, to speak out against injustice. I believe that silence is complicity, and I refuse to be complicit in a system that devalues and disregards women’s lives.

We must continue to demand change, not only through policy but also through cultural transformation. Laws and conventions alone cannot change hearts and minds, but they are a necessary foundation upon which a just society is built. We need to keep challenging harmful norms, advocating for survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable. We must push for comprehensive education on gender equality, cultivate empathy and understanding, and create spaces where women’s voices can be heard and valued.

As I commit to supporting the fight for women’s rights, I acknowledge the magnitude of the challenges ahead. But I also believe in the power of collective action, in the unbreakable bond formed by those who dare to dream of a better world. Every protest, every conversation, every piece of art, and every story that shines a light on the importance of gender equality is a step toward dismantling the structures of oppression that have persisted for far too long.

In the face of adversity, I hold onto hope and the conviction that change is possible. I believe that by coming together, we can amplify our voices, challenge injustice, and build a world where every woman is free to live without fear. Let us stand firm in our commitment to justice and equality, knowing that our actions can shape the future and leave a lasting legacy of compassion, empowerment, and respect.