Gender inequality in Turkey is actually a much deeper issue than we often realize. There are so many behaviors in our daily lives that have become normalized that we no longer even question them. But when we stop and think for a moment, it is not hard to see that opportunities, expectations, and even freedoms are not equal between women and men.
This situation starts from a very young age. Boys are told things like “men don’t cry,” while girls are taught to “be quiet” and “be well-behaved.” This alone is a form of inequality. Because from the very beginning, how everyone should behave is already decided. There is a perception that men should be strong, while women should be calm and stay in the background.
When we look at education, although the school enrollment rate of girls in Turkey has increased compared to the past, there are still problems in some regions. Especially in rural areas, situations such as early marriage of girls or dropping out of school still exist. This makes it harder for them to become economically independent in the future.
In the workplace, inequality becomes even more visible. There can be a wage gap between men and women doing the same job. In addition, some professions are still seen as “men’s jobs” or “women’s jobs.” For example, it is not a coincidence that men are more represented in engineering or managerial positions. This is partly due to the mistaken belief that women may not be as successful in these fields.
There are also issues within the household. Even if a woman works, housework and childcare are often seen as her responsibility. When men help, they are praised as “good people,” even though this should be the norm. This shows how normalized inequality has become.
The media, including social media, can also reinforce these perceptions. In TV series and advertisements, women are often portrayed in certain roles (housewives, well-groomed, self-sacrificing, etc.), which affects society’s perspective. Men, on the other hand, are portrayed as stronger, more dominant, and decision-makers. This settles into our subconscious even if we do not realize it.
So what is the solution? I think the most important thing is awareness. Change is difficult unless people recognize the problem. Education is very critical here. The concept of equality needs to be properly taught in both schools and families. Men must also be part of this process, because this is not only a women’s issue.
In addition, supporting women more in working life, ensuring equal opportunities, and taking stronger measures against violence are important. However, small changes in daily life can also make a big difference. For example, sharing housework and giving equal freedoms to boys and girls.
In conclusion, gender inequality in Turkey is still a serious issue, but it is not unsolvable. Change may be slow, but it is not impossible. If everyone becomes a little more conscious and stops saying “this is how it has always been,” a more equal society is possible.
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