Riada Ašimović Akyol

Riada Asimovic Akyol is an independent analyst and writer. Her articles have been published by The New York Times, Al Jazeera English, The Nation and The National. She is pursuing a doctorate related to religion and nationalism at Galatasaray University, Istanbul. On Twitter: @riadaaa

Turkey | Aug 5, 2019

Beats for women: Turkey's star hijabi DJ leads dance revolution

Turkey's popular DJ Safir says women love the freedom of her all-female shows regardless of their politics or ideology.

Turkey | Jul 17, 2019

Istanbul soup kitchen serves hope to homeless

A former homeless survivor of rape and other violence not only got herself off the streets but established a foundation to help others do the same.

Turkey | Jun 12, 2018

New online platform helps Turkish immigrant women abroad

The "Immigrant Women’s Solidarity Platform" connects Turkish women who are planning to move or have moved abroad, assisting them in settling down in their host countries.

Turkish women wave German and Turkish flags during a visit of Turkey's President Abdullah Gul in Osnabrueck September 20, 2011. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY - Tags: POLITICS) - BM2E79K144D01

Turkey | Apr 6, 2018

Turkey’s top business body pushes for more gender equality in TV series

The top business body in Turkey finds gender bias in TV series that reproduces traditional stereotypes — and aims to help correct it.

Turkey | Mar 21, 2018

First female deputy of religious body comes at tough time for Turkish women

Huriye Marti has assumed the highest office at Turkey's Directorate of Religious Affairs thus far by a woman, but is it a step in the right direction for the situation of women in Turkey?

Turkey | Feb 26, 2018

Turkey wants to criminalize adultery

Upon instructions from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Justice Ministry is working on new legislation outlawing adultery.

Turkish women from different cities join a demonstration against the adultery ban in Ankara, September 14, 2004. The Turkish parliament meets in an extraordinary session on Tuesday to push through a massive series of amendments to the country's penal code. Most of the 348 articles of the penal code are to be changed under the draft legislation tabled by the ruling Justice and Development Party, including the amendment that is making adultery a criminal offence. REUTERS/Umit Bektas UB/GB - RP5DRIAIJWAA

Turkey | Dec 18, 2017

Turkey’s top religious body okays divorce via text message

Turkey’s Directorate of Religious Affairs has issued several controversial opinions, most recently one stating that men may divorce their wives via a telephone call, fax, text message or email.