Istanbul: Queen Mathilde of Belgium emphasized the economic and societal benefits of empowering women during her official visit to Turkey. Speaking at a panel titled ‘The Business World and Entrepreneurship as Drivers of Women’s Empowerment’ in Istanbul, the Queen outlined the scientifically proven advantages of integrating women fully into the economy, including enhanced resilience and innovation capacities.

According to Anadolu Agency, Queen Mathilde highlighted that equal participation of women in economic and political decision-making is crucial for inclusive growth. She pointed out that Belgium’s experience shows that equality is achieved through deliberate and structural measures, such as legislative efforts to promote gender balance, initiatives on pay transparency, and investment in accessible childcare.

The Queen underscored the importance of creating safe and respectful working environments, noting that violence and harassment at work undermine individual rights and organizational trust. Belgium’s comprehensive legal framework provides strategies for prevention and accountability, including confidential counseling and formal complaint procedures.

Queen Mathilde also addressed the ongoing transformations in the labor market, driven by digitalization and remote working, which present both opportunities and risks. She emphasized the need for inclusive policies to prevent existing inequalities from being exacerbated and to ensure talent retention.

Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas, Turkey’s Minister of Family and Social Services, echoed the Queen’s sentiments, stating that women’s representation in business is integral to economic development. She highlighted Turkey’s strategic initiatives over the past 24 years to enhance women’s roles in social and economic spheres, driven by supportive policies under President Erdogan’s leadership.

The minister stressed Turkey’s commitment to international cooperation in women’s empowerment, expressing optimism about strengthening ties with Belgium through partnerships in entrepreneurship and inclusive development. The economic missions from Belgium to Turkey are seen as opportunities to foster new collaborations in trade, investment, and technology.