An event organized by the DEM Party's Local Government Board and the Disability Commission focused on the "Regulations of the Directorate of Disability and Elderly Services." The event was attended by Tuncer Bakırhan, the co-chair of the Peoples' Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party), co-mayors, and representatives from various organizations.

"Wars increase the number of disabled people"

Bakırhan highlighted the challenges faced by people with disabilities, saying: "War is not only about massacres, but it also leads to an increase in the number of disabled people. Moreover, the resources allocated to them are removed, forcing them to live in difficult conditions. That’s why we must be against war. Instead of war, we must advocate for resolving problems through dialogue and negotiation. War does not only affect the country in which it takes place, its people, beliefs, and differences; it impacts the entire world – territory, the air, the water, and resources."

"We will fight our struggle together"

Bakırhan reminded that there are nearly 10 million people with disabilities in the country, adding: "People with disabilities make up 12% of society, but unfortunately, there are no laws or policies to improve their lives, make them equal citizens, and offer them a future."

He addressed all marginalized groups, saying: "I want to promise that we will walk this path together with you, as equal citizens, in the fight for a Turkey where accessible services are available."

He emphasized the importance of sign language for the hearing impaired and called for their status to be officially recognized, and added that priority should be given to appointments for people with disabilities.

"Services in our municipalities must be accessible"

Bakırhan also called on DEM Party municipal co-mayors. "We are addressing our municipalities once again: services must be accessible to all. This should be the main focus of our municipalities. When building sidewalks, roads, overpasses, and underpasses, and when constructing cultural and artistic spaces, the first thing to consider should be whether people with disabilities can access these places. This should be the top priority. Rest assured, even if they appoint trustees to our municipalities or try to block our work, we will not allow this. Hopefully, in all of our municipalities, we will sign agreements to create projects that make life easier for citizens with disabilities, ensuring equal participation in life."

After Bakırhan’s speech, Amed’s co-mayors Serra Bucak and Doğan Hatun introduced the "Regulations of the Directorate of Disability and Elderly Services."