How to Contribute to Turkey Earthquake Charities

Organizations Providing Relief

In response to the recent earthquake in Turkey, various organizations have stepped up to provide crucial relief and support. This section delves into notable Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Turkey and the significant role played by faith-based organizations (FBOs), especially for those looking to extend their turkey charity support from afar.

Notable NGOs in Turkey

Several NGOs are at the forefront of offering relief in times of disaster. These organizations provide a wide range of services, from medical assistance to search and rescue operations. Here are some of the most notable NGOs in Turkey:

These NGOs work tirelessly to provide essential services and resources to communities affected by natural disasters like the February 6, 2023, earthquake.

Support from Faith-Based Organizations

Faith-based organizations play a crucial role in Turkey's social assistance system. Rooted in principles such as zakat (almsgiving), these organizations motivate philanthropic actions and offer substantial support during times of crisis. The influence of FBOs in Turkey extends beyond merely financial aid; they also serve as intermediaries in social assistance programs.

Faith-based organizations in Turkey have historically operated as instruments of indirect political patronage, often consolidating government influence through their social assistance activities (Nature). They play a significant role in directing philanthropic actions, thereby making them essential in supporting long-term recovery efforts.

For Singapore Muslims eager to contribute to Turkey earthquake relief, supporting these NGOs and FBOs offers a way to make a meaningful impact. Whether through financial donations or other forms of support, these organizations ensure that relief efforts are effective, transparent, and aligned with local needs.

Challenges in Turkey

Women's Rights Issues

One of the significant challenges in Turkey is the ongoing struggle for women's rights. In March 2021, Turkey made a controversial decision to withdraw from the Council of Europe's Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence, commonly known as the Istanbul Convention. This treaty had been strongly supported by women's rights movements in the country, aiming to combat gender-based violence and promote equality.

The withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention marked a major reversal in Turkey's efforts toward improving women's rights. The government justified this decision by claiming that the Convention "normalizes homosexuality," a statement that drew widespread international criticism and led to protests by women's rights groups. As a result, the struggle for gender equality and the protection of women against violence has faced considerable setbacks.

Press Freedom Concerns

Press freedom is another critical issue in Turkey. The authoritarian and highly centralized government of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has significantly undermined the independence of the judiciary and weakened the country's democratic institutions. This environment has had a grave impact on press freedom and the free flow of information.

There are frequent removals of content and prosecutions for news coverage critical of senior government figures, often under the country's highly restrictive Anti-Terror Law. At the time of writing, 58 journalists and media workers are either in prison or serving sentences for terrorism offenses directly related to their journalistic work or association with the media. This has created a chilling effect, stifling free speech and limiting the public's access to unbiased information.

Both women's rights and press freedom are vital for the functioning of a healthy democracy. Addressing these challenges is essential to improve the country's human rights record and ensure a more equitable and open society.

Civil Society in Turkey

Controlled Environment

Turkey's civil society operates within a legally restrictive environment that emphasizes the primacy of the state. Laws governing the collection of donations, tax exemptions, and fundamental rights and freedoms allow the state considerable latitude to dominate public discourse and activities. These laws make the environment for civil society organizations in Turkey both restrictive and uncertain (American Progress).

The political atmosphere is marked by uncertainty and fear, creating a shrinking space for advocacy and human rights organizations. The government's understanding of democracy has become increasingly narrow, further constricting the operational capabilities of civil society.

In the wake of the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016, the situation worsened significantly. Authorities arrested around 40,000 people and either fired or suspended 140,000 individuals. Additionally, over 1,500 civil society organizations and 150 media outlets were shut down (American Progress).

Impact on Political Patronage

In Turkey, faith-based organizations (FBOs) have long played a role as intermediaries in social assistance programs, serving to consolidate the government's power (Nature). Since the Ottoman Empire, these organizations have often acted as tools of political patronage.

The Justice and Development Party (JDP) government has effectively utilized FBOs to maintain the status quo. By offering social support through these entities, the government fosters dependency and loyalty among the populace. This arrangement helps to secure political allegiance and mitigate dissent.

Faith-based organizations serve as indirect instruments of political patronage, reinforcing the government's control over civil society. They act as forces to sustain loyalty to the ruling party or government (Nature).

In the context of Turkey's restrictive environment and the government's use of FBOs for political purposes, the role of civil society becomes even more complex. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for those interested in supporting earthquake relief efforts and other charitable activities in Turkey.

Recent Earthquake in Turkey

February 6, 2023 Disaster

On February 6, 2023, a powerful earthquake struck Turkey, causing extensive damage and affecting millions of lives. The disaster impacted over 14 million people, leaving many in desperate need of immediate assistance. Communities were devastated, with homes and infrastructures severely compromised, creating a dire need for extensive relief and recovery efforts.

Response Efforts by Foundations

In response to the catastrophic earthquake, various foundations swiftly mobilized to provide much-needed relief and support to the affected regions.

Özyeğin Social Investments

Özyeğin Social Investments played a critical role in the relief efforts. They quickly mobilized to aid over 14 million affected individuals. Their comprehensive response included sending 283 rescue experts to assist on the ground, setting up mobile kitchens equipped with heating appliances, and providing essential facilities like showers and toilets. Additionally, they secured their employees' safety, halted loan payments for residents in the affected areas, and extended support to 11 cities, each with populations exceeding 1 million (Harvard Business Review).

Vehbi Koç Foundation and Koç Group

The Vehbi Koç Foundation and Koç Group companies also took significant steps to support the earthquake relief efforts. They provided electric heaters, clothing, blankets, lamps, stoves, and basic food supplies. The group further established mobile kitchens and container living spaces to accommodate those who lost their homes. They allocated two billion Turkish Lira in resources to ensure comprehensive support for the affected areas (Alliance Magazine).

Sabancı Foundation

The Sabancı Foundation, together with Sabancı Group companies, provided extensive relief in the aftermath of the earthquake. They converted permanent structures into temporary shelters, supplied food, blankets, and mobile toilets, and supported the Disaster Platform. The foundation also established a Disaster Relief Fund and focused on rebuilding schools for children in the affected regions (Alliance Magazine).

These concerted efforts highlight the resilience and commitment of various foundations in providing substantial relief and support to those affected by the February 6, 2023, earthquake in Turkey.

Philanthropic Initiatives

In the wake of the devastating earthquake in Turkey on February 6, 2023, various philanthropic organizations have stepped in to provide much-needed assistance. This section will highlight the significant contributions made by the Koç Group and the Sabancı Foundation.

Koç Group Relief Efforts

The Koç Group, alongside the Vehbi Koç Foundation, has mobilized substantial resources to offer relief efforts to the impacted regions. Their actions were comprehensive, aiming to address both immediate needs and longer-term support.

• Immediate Supplies:

• Electric heaters

• Clothes

• Blankets

• Lamps

• Stoves

• Basic food items

• Infrastructure Support:

• Mobile kitchens

• Container living spaces

The Koç Group allocated two billion Turkish Lira to assist affected communities (Alliance Magazine).

Sabancı Foundation's Response

The Sabancı Foundation, in conjunction with Sabancı Group companies, has also played a crucial role in providing earthquake relief. Their efforts have been extensive, focusing on both immediate relief and sustainable recovery initiatives.

• Immediate Response:

• Conversion of permanent buildings into temporary shelters

• Provision of basic necessities such as:

  • Food
  • Blankets
  • Mobile toilets

• Support Initiatives:

• Contribution to the Disaster Platform

• Establishment of a Disaster Relief Fund

• Construction of schools for affected children

• Organization of various child-friendly activities

Furthermore, the Sabancı Foundation has committed to climate-related initiatives, emphasizing sustainable development, reducing climate impact, and joining global efforts on climate change (Alliance Magazine).

Through these concerted efforts, both the Koç Group and the Sabancı Foundation exemplify significant charitable work, mobilizing resources and providing various forms of aid to mitigate the earthquake's impact and support long-term recovery in Turkey.

Continuing Support Efforts

Long-Term Recovery Projects

Long-term recovery projects are vital for the sustained rehabilitation of earthquake-affected regions. The Vehbi Koç Foundation has been at the forefront of such efforts. This foundation has partnered with the Ministry of National Education to establish schools, ensuring that children’s education continues uninterrupted despite the disaster's impact (Alliance Magazine). Additionally, they organize various activities for the children in these communities to help them cope and resume a sense of normalcy.

Education and Climate Initiatives

Education and climate initiatives play a crucial role in the broader context of recovery and resilience. The Sabancı Foundation has made significant contributions in this area. They have evaluated their activities to minimize climate impact and have taken robust steps toward sustainable development. The foundation has joined the Foundations 20 Platform, incorporating climate change into their Grant Programmes.

The Sabancı Foundation's engagement includes establishing a Disaster Relief Emergency Fund to address climate-related disasters and signing the International Philanthropy Commitment on Climate Change led by WINGS.

These continuous support efforts are pivotal in not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering long-term resilience and sustainability in the affected areas.