Turkish opposition leader pledges return to Istanbul Convention

By Emin Avundukluoglu

ANKARA (AA) - A Turkish opposition leader on Wednesday said that if her party comes to power in the next elections, they will return Turkey to an international pact said to combat violence against women.

Speaking to her Good (IYI) Party parliamentary group, Meral Aksener accused the Justice and Development (AK) Party of being responsible for violence against women.

"Here I would like to address the AK Party government! In our country today, the biggest basis of violence against women is you, who have abolished the Istanbul Convention," Aksener said, referring to the 2011 pact, which was opened for signing at a meeting in the Turkish metropolis.

Turkey withdrew from the convention on March 19, arguing that the pact conflicted with local traditions and that Turkish laws provide ample protection to women.

"Here I say it clearly and precisely: When we get the authorization, before my tea comes to the table, the Istanbul Convention has been signed and will be implemented in the sharpest way," she added.​​​​​​​

Turkey's next elections are set for 2023.