The first NGO training of the project "Strengthening the Respect for Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Turkey" conducted by Istanbul Bilgi University Human Rights Law Research Center and supported by Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law and Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, was held in Istanbul between 31 May-2 June 2006.

The training lasted three days and 24 participants from 19 NGOs of Marmara Region was attended. Presentations regarding the standards set out in United Nations, Council of Europe and the European Union are preceded by an introduction to international human rights law given and a discussion sessions on Turkish legislation on the most problematic 3 areas, namely labour law and social security, special education and housing was also a part of the agenda.

The local experts were selected by Bilgi University and the international expert was selected by RWI. The local experts were Dr. İdil Işıl Gül (Istanbul Bilgi University Faculty of Law),  Assist. Prof. Dolunay Özbek (Istanbul Bilgi University Faculty of Law), Assoc. Prof. Gülsevil Alpagut (Istanbul University Faculty of Law), Ms. Güler Polat (Head of the Disability Law Commission at Istanbul Bar) and Ms. J. Işıl Bağatur. The international expert was Ms. Maria Ventegodt Liisberg (Researcher, Danish Institute for Human Rights).

Simultaneous translation, sign language for deaf participants and braille printed materials were available. 

On the second day, H.M King Carl XVI Gustaf and H.M.Queen Silvia of Sweden visited Istanbul Bilgi University to meet with the founders of the University, the Rector and the Dean. During their visit a presentation on the new Disability Law was made by Member of Parliament Mr. Lokman Ayva.

The 3rd day was devoted to group work on case studies where the participants put the knowledge they gained through the training into practice. 

Please get in contact with Project Coordinator Asst. Prof. Dr. İdil Işıl Gül for more information about the project (igul@bilgi.edu.tr).