The Women's Initiative 'I Need Peace' issued a comprehensive statement on violence against women, impunity, and the oppressive environment in universities following a gathering held in Dersim on June 6-7. More than 50 women from various cities participated, with the Gülistan Doku case being one of the main agenda items.
The statement argued that the Gülistan Doku case is linked to male-state violence against female students in Dersim. The initiative stated that they came together to expose the criminal connections, systematic violence, and its ties to war policies in a case that has been covered up for six years.
Women's Testimonies Heard in Dersim
The initiative reported holding meetings with the local women's platform, unions, institutions, and students. These discussions revealed how the pressures that increased after the end of the peace process over the last decade have turned daily life into a harsher environment of violence and threats.
The statement noted that events following the Gülistan Doku case have reinforced this situation. The initiative emphasized that the case cannot be seen as an isolated incident but rather exposes a broader system of violence.
Debate on Violence and Impunity in Universities
The assessment stated that systematic violence against students in universities continues despite investigations and some arrests. It was argued that women's daily lives persist under male-dominated oppression, and effective policies to prevent femicides have not been implemented.
The statement also highlighted clear allegations of organized sexual abuse networks involving students at provincial universities. The initiative said these allegations deepen the debate on impunity.
Security Practices Affect Women's Lives
The statement drew attention to the pervasive security policies in Dersim, claiming that the number of security personnel in the city is close to or even exceeds the number of students. Continuous surveillance through MOBESE cameras and checkpoints creates an environment that causes insecurity rather than safety for women.
The initiative expressed that streets, dormitories, and campuses have become spaces far from livable for women. It was also noted that women's organizing spaces in universities have been restricted, while some groups continue to operate freely.
The evaluation that students face pressure and threats, with their social and academic lives being limited, was among the key points of the gathering. It was argued that female students are under multifaceted pressure both in daily life and education.
The initiative declared it will follow up on all allegations raised during the meeting. The message conveyed was that true peace is only possible by making violence against women visible and combating impunity.
