7.8 Earthquake Emergency Response in Turkey& Syria

Following the devastating 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye, the International Blue Crescent Relief and Development Foundation (IBC) has continued its efforts to strengthen community resilience, empower women and youth, and promote social cohesion across the affected regions together with its partners.

Raising Awareness on Child Marriage and Women’s Empowerment

In cooperation with Kilis Municipality, IBC organised an information and awareness-raising session titled “The Harms of Child Marriage and What Can We Do as a Society?” The event addressed key issues such as effective communication with children, combating violence against women, and promoting gender equality. The initiative aimed to prevent child, early, and forced marriages while supporting women’s empowerment and fostering community awareness.

Promoting Children’s Rights and Well-being

In partnership with World Vision, IBC held sessions on Children’s Rights, Protective Factors, and Holistic Child Well-being. Participants discussed children’s physical, emotional, mental, and social development, highlighting the importance of basic rights such as health, education, safety, love, and care. Within the framework of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the sessions examined the vital roles of families and social support systems in ensuring every child’s right to life, protection, development and participation.

Empowering Youth through Volunteerism

Under the Youth Project carried out in collaboration with GIZ, young volunteers in Kirikhan engaged with children and vulnerable individuals across 24 container cities. Through a variety of community activities and inclusive workshops participants were able to identify local needs and strengthened community ties. This experience not only fostered civic engagement but also helped young people build confidence, develop leadership skills and take an active role in their community’s recovery.

Women’s Empowerment through Handicraft Workshops

At IBC’s community centers, women continue to build independence through handicraft workshops. With access to sewing machines and necessary materials, participants produce and sell handcrafted goods while also providing repair services within their communities. Beyond creating income opportunities, these workshops promote resilience and social participation, empowering women to shape a brighter and more secure future. 

Ongoing Support to Vulnerable Families

Thanks to your generous donor contributions, IBC has been also able to provide food parcels and blankets to some of the most vulnerable families in preparation for the winter season. These efforts help ensure that families affected by the earthquakes face the coming months with dignity and warmth.

IBC and all our beneficiaries express their sincere gratitude for your continued trust and support.