As in many countries, laws protecting women's rights in Turkey have had little impact due to the lack of political will and public inertia. A study on the incidence of 'honour' killings was a wake-up call to government officials and others to do something about it. An advocacy campaign initiated by UNFPA and involving government decision-makers, NGOs, the private sector and Turkish celebrities proved remarkably successful in focusing public attention and shaping a national dialogue on violence against women. Its targeting of Turkish men was a key to its success. Among other superstars who embraced the campaign were the countrys major league football players, who spread the message'Stop violence against women!' during half-time and in film spots on television and in cinemas across the country.
As in many countries, laws protecting women's rights in Turkey have had little impact due to the lack of political will and public inertia. A study on the incidence of 'honour' killings was a wake-up call to government officials and others to do something about it. An advocacy campaign initiated by UNFPA and involving government decision-makers, NGOs, the private sector and Turkish celebrities proved remarkably successful in focusing public attention and shaping a national dialogue on violence against women. Its targeting of Turkish men was a key to its success. Among other superstars who embraced the campaign were the countrys major league football players, who spread the message'Stop violence against women!' during half-time and in film spots on television and in cinemas across the country.