Ilmek Ilmek Concludes Its Final Module at the Dutch Consulate General in Istanbul
The final module of Ilmek Ilmek, the Turkish programme of Alliance of Her, took place in Istanbul from 8 to 11 October 2026. Co-organised by Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF) Türkiye and VVD International, the programme brought together women active in politics from different cities and political parties across Türkiye to strengthen their leadership skills, campaign strategies and political engagement.
Titled “Build Your Campaign and Take Action”, the third module marked the culmination of a three-part learning journey. The programme began in Denizli in May, focusing on understanding oneself and the political system, followed by a second module in Rize in July on identifying voters and choosing policy priorities. The final module in Istanbul built on these foundations, focusing on translating political knowledge into effective campaign strategies and concrete action.
A special highlight of the programme was that part of the activities took place at the German and Dutch Consulate General in Istanbul, where the Consul General addressed the participants. Hosting part of the programme at the Consulate provided a meaningful setting for discussions on women’s leadership, political participation and the importance of international cooperation.
Ilmek Ilmek is inspired by Alliance of Her, a European initiative supported by the European Parliament that seeks to strengthen women’s leadership in politics through training, mentoring and networking. The Turkish programme aims not only to equip participants with practical skills in political communication, voter analysis and campaign management, but also to foster solidarity and lasting connections among women with different political backgrounds.
Through its three modules, Ilmek Ilmek has created a space for participants to exchange experiences, develop their leadership capacities and build networks that can support their continued involvement in political life. By bringing together women from across Türkiye, the programme contributes to ongoing efforts to strengthen women’s representation and encourage more inclusive political participation.
VVD International warmly thanks FNF Türkiye and all partners, trainers and participants who contributed to the programme. We also extend our appreciation to the German & Dutch Consulate General in Istanbul for welcoming the participants and contributing to this special moment in the programme. The conclusion of Ilmek Ilmek marks an important milestone in supporting women in politics and strengthening international cooperation around inclusive leadership.
