New York, NY – March 11, 2025 – The Advocates of Silenced Turkey (AST) Youth Team, in collaboration with Set Them Free, the Journalists and Writers Foundation (JWF), and Embrace Relief, successfully organized a panel titled “Beyond Borders: Health, Gender, and Social Exclusion in Conflict and Poverty-Stricken Regions” on March 10, 2025. Held as part of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), the event took place before a full audience, reflecting the strong interest in the challenges faced by women and girls in conflict-affected and impoverished areas.
The panel emphasized the crucial role of international cooperation in addressing health inequalities, gender injustices, and systemic discrimination. Special attention was given to the impact of health issues such as cataracts on disadvantaged communities, highlighting the significance of humanitarian aid efforts and global solidarity in tackling these challenges. Participants engaged in discussions on strategies to strengthen global advocacy and humanitarian efforts aimed at improving the health and social conditions of women and girls.
Rutgers University student, Hasan Sandir, stated:
“Cataracts are not just about vision loss; they represent a loss of fundamental needs.”
Smithtown High School student, Hansa Girdap, added:
“Imagine not being able to see the faces of your loved ones, the sunset, or the beauty of the world around you! Many things we consider basic necessities are a luxury for those suffering from conditions like cataracts.”
Ellentown Parkland High School student, Büşra Bayram, emphasized:
“One of the most effective ways to prevent cataracts is education. Unfortunately, awareness and access to eye care remain among the biggest gaps in healthcare.”
Pioneer High School student, Dila Yüksel, remarked:
“When we help someone regain their sight, we are not just changing their world, but the world of everyone around them.”
As a continuation of their advocacy efforts, the AST Youth Team will host another panel titled “Forced Migration: Ukraine, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Palestine.” This online event, scheduled for March 19, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM (New York time), will explore the challenges faced by women in conflict and post-conflict displacement situations.
By highlighting the experiences of women in conflict zones, these panel discussions showcase the inspiring and impactful role of youth in advocacy and social justice. They also emphasize how young people can contribute to creating safer and more supportive environments and drive meaningful change through grassroots initiatives and global solidarity.
To register for the virtual panel discussion, “Gender-Based Conflict and Forced Migration: Ukraine, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Palestine” on March 19, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM (New York time), click the link below:
