The International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for Turkey assists Halka Cooperative in strengthening its area of influence through the “Transition to Formality Programme (KIGEP)” and “Decent Work Opportunities for Refugees and Host Communities in Turkey” with funding from the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration (USPRM).

The support to Halka Cooperative started with work permit and social security premium support to 5 Syrians under Temporary Protection (SuTPs) and 1 Turkish citizen, and continued with the meetings with the Cooperative’s partners for assessment of support and experience sharing, and provision of equipment and machinery to strengthen the Cooperative in the labour market and ensure sustainability.

The ILO Office for Turkey will continue to increase its support to cooperatives.

Who is Halka Cooperative?

Halka Cooperative is a worker/service cooperative operating in the professional cleaning services sector in Izmir. It dreams of a world where women are empowered for leadership and change. It focuses on supporting and developing women to become partners in a social cooperative and learn how to sustain income-generating activities. Halka engages in activities of economic empowerment including advocating women’s rights, eliminating discrimination against women, developing women’s capacity and leadership skills, making their voice heard for participating in decisions affecting their lives.