On 17 October 2022, DPI held its first interactive seminar in Istanbul, focusing on the role of civil society actors in supporting progress and peace in Turkey. Participants — experts in law, human rights, women’s studies, the economy, education, media, and peace — gathered to explore how civil society can complement high-level negotiations and enhance the sustainability of peace efforts.
Divided into four sessions, the seminar guided participants through defining peace priorities, identifying current opportunities and obstacles, developing communication strategies, and exchanging feedback on their initiatives. A key takeaway was the need to create new content on the peace process and the history and costs of conflict, in order to promote reconciliation and public support, especially on the Kurdish issue.
Participants also highlighted the importance of involving a wider range of actors — including businesspeople, media, youth, women’s groups, artists, cultural workers, and religious leaders — to develop updated approaches.