Inequality based on differences between individuals in social life is one of the most widespread problems. In this context, the problem of inequality between genders includes the types of unequal treatment and discrimination that individuals face on the basis of gender.
Treating all people fairly and equally, without any distinction based on gender, ethnicity, language, religion, race, belief, political opinion, or similar grounds, is a principle recognized internationally and addressed in both national and international regulations.
Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University undertakes to comply with the principle of equality expressed in Article 10 of the Constitution of the Republic of Turkey as, "Everyone is equal before the law, without distinction as to language, race, colour, sex, political opinion, philosophical belief, religion and sect, or any such grounds." and, in this context, accepts and undertakes not to discriminate on the basis of gender and to treat everyone equally within the framework of the relevant legislation and the plan [Gender Equality Plan (GEP)].
Purpose of the İZÜ Gender Equality Plan (GEP)
İZÜ GEP's main purpose is to prevent discrimination based on gender differences in the University's business and processes, and to ensure that individuals of different genders are treated equally and fairly. In line with this main purpose, the following objectives are targeted:
1. To eliminate gender-based discriminatory practices in the areas of employee recruitment, job security, and career development, and to develop practices aimed at improving gender equality.
2. To take measures that eliminate gender imbalances and improve equality between genders in leadership and decision-making processes.
3. To create and sustain a safe "organizational culture and work environment" that supports "work-life balance" and is free from gender-based discrimination, harassment, and violence in decisions and actions concerning academic, administrative, and externally sourced staff, as well as students.
4. To improve the gender balance by taking gender perspective and equality into consideration in the content and processes of research and teaching.
GEP Process Requirements
The Gender Equality Plan (GEP), aimed at achieving the objectives specified above, is designed and implemented to meet the following basic process requirements:
1. Public and Stakeholder Sharing: The GEP is issued as an official document approved by senior management and shared with the public and relevant parties within the institution. The Plan includes the institution's commitment to gender equality, its objectives, and the actions and criteria necessary to achieve these objectives.
2. Resource Allocation: The human and material resources and time allocation necessary for the design, implementation, and monitoring of the GEP are provided, and in this context, the positions and "commissions" needed for gender equality are established.
3. Arrangements for Data Collection and Monitoring: The GEP is developed based on gender data classified by staff category, and the plan's objectives, progress, and results are monitored in accordance with established arrangements and procedures, and reported annually.
4. Training and Capacity Building Support: The GEP is supported by training and capacity building activities. In this context, training, communication, and other organizations and activities aimed at raising awareness and understanding of topics such as gender equality, gender-based discrimination, harassment and violence, social prejudices/stereotypes regarding gender, and equality/equal treatment are supported and carried out.
In order to achieve the objectives and goals specified above, in addition to the process-related requirements, the GEP shall address the following:
1. Work-life balance and organizational culture
2. Gender balance in management and decision-making processes,
3. Gender equality in recruitment and career development and other human resources management processes,
4. Integration of the gender dimension into research and teaching,
5. Necessary measures and sanctions against violations of equality and human rights, and gender-based discrimination, harassment, etc.,
6. It aims to take the necessary steps in areas such as education and measures related to digital gender-based and other inequality/discrimination, harassment, and violence.