Abstract 

This paper discusses the complex and entangled relationships between Kurdish women's rights activism, the wider Kurdish political movement and Turkish women's rights activism.  Based on qualitative multi-sited ethnographic research in Turkey (Istanbul and Diyarbakir/Amed) and two diaspora locations (London and Berlin), Prof Al-Ali will discuss the various ways that gender-based equality has become central for articulations of and activism towards peace, democracy and challenges to political authoritarianism. While discussing the ideological shift from nationalism to radical democracy (democratic confederalism) within the Kurdish political movement, she will provide a gendered analysis of the Turkish-Kurdish conflict, various forms of gender-based violence and attempts at making peace. She will also reassess the much debated relationship between feminism and nationalism.                     

Refreshments will be served.

**All welcome**