Gender Equality Research in the Turkish Energy Sector. Women's Employment: Global and Local Dynamics
Keywords: Gender equality, Women’s empowerment, employment, career development | Study published: September 2024
This study, conducted by the German Energy Agency (dena) in collaboration with Turkish Women in Renewables and Energy and the Green Collar Women Association, focusses on gender equality within Türkiye’s energy sector. It explores women's employment status, career development opportunities, and gender-based discrimination, offering a comprehensive analysis of the challenges women face. These include obstacles to promotions, access to senior management roles, and sexist workplace attitudes. The report highlights women's experiences in the sector and provides actionable recommendations to improve gender equality. Additionally, it discusses the positive impact of the growing renewable energy industry, particularly in solar and wind energy, on women's employment opportunities. This research serves as a valuable guide for policymakers, companies, and civil society organisations working towards gender equality in the energy sector.
The study reveals significant gender-based barriers in Türkiye’s energy sector, with women facing challenges in career advancement, access to senior roles, and workplace discrimination, despite the positive impact of the renewable energy industry on employment.
- Establishing Gender Equality Policies within Companies: Developing clear policies, offering training, ensuring transparency, and fostering leadership commitment to promote a more inclusive work environment.
- Encouraging Female Students to enter the Sector: Implementing training programs, scholarships, and mentorship initiatives to attract more women to the energy field.
- Raising Awareness for Gender Equality: Organizing seminars, internal campaigns, collaborating with NGOs to broaden awareness and support for gender equality efforts.