Our Foundation's Board of Directors Chairman Dr. Ömer Faruk Gergerlioğlu was at the Civil Voices Festival held at Ankara TED University on October 5-6. This year, under the theme of "Strong Civil Society", civil society organizations from all over Turkey came together and held important discussions on the democratization of society, human rights, solidarity and finding solutions to social problems. Ömer Bey, who visited the civil society stands, found the work of civil society organizations that are trying to make a difference in society in many different areas inspiring.
At the festival, the Foundation's mission and vision were introduced to a wide audience at the Vicdan Foundation stand. Information was provided on the work carried out in areas such as justice, human rights and civic participation, and how volunteers can play a role in these processes. On this occasion, the Foundation gained new volunteers and strengthened its solidarity networks with supporters.
The opening session of the festival, titled “The Future of Democracy: Civil Society Experiences” , discussed how civil society organizations can contribute to the democratization process and what needs to be done to create more participatory and transparent structures. Dr. Gergerlioğlu also shared the foundation’s perspectives and suggestions on this issue with the participants in this session.
The festival also addressed human rights violations in Palestine. The panel titled “The Role of Civil Society in Confronting Ignored War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity in Palestine” addressed the events in Palestine and discussed the roles that civil society can play in this process. The Vicdan Foundation also took part in this session and conveyed a message of support and solidarity to the Palestinian people.
In the sessions where civil society organizations from earthquake zones shared their experiences, the Vicdan Foundation also emphasized the importance of social solidarity after disasters. Information was given especially about the work carried out after the February 6 Earthquakes.
The festival continues today. The Vicdan Foundation stand will be open to all visitors and we will be happy to welcome anyone interested in civil society activities.
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