Women unionists from Confederation of Public Workers Unions (KESK) urge for rapid action to safeguard working women against rape and sexual violence.

Sevgi Göyçe of Health Workers Union (SES) during press meeting at the headquarters of the KESK told journalists that violence towards women workers varies from “constant verbal abuse and degrading behaviour to systematic/mass rapes”.

Health Ministry silent

Referring to a recent rape case against nurse N.T of Istanbul’s Okmeydani SSK Training and Research Hospital, Göyçe charges the ministry of health with hiding behind a thick veil of silence whereas violence towards women is “the most common form of violation of human rights across the world.”

The attack against nurse N.T. can not be seen as a simple criminal case, believes Göyçe: “Long working hours, night shifts and poorly illuminated streets, along with the lack of social rights increase the danger.”

Demands

Göyçe urges that hospital managements should provide transport for their woman workers, and further develop policies to protect against sexual harassment.

Recalling the government’s responsibilities, emanating from international treaties Göyçe urges the government should set forth policies against rape and violence towards women:

* The government must provide independent local women’s shelters, psychological and legal counseling centres, and also free medical and legal assistance,

* City planning should introduce considerations to prevent women from sexual violence,

* Training and education programs for health workers, teachers, social workers, psychologists, child development specialists, and police forces must include specific guidelines on violence towards women and children

* Victims of sexual violence must be protected throughout the legal process. (BB/YE)