Nejla Isik named Türkiye’s sole representative on BBC 100 Women List 2024

Each year, the BBC reveals its noteworthy 100 Women List 2024, spotlighting women worldwide who inspire and drive meaningful change. For 2024, Türkiye’s Nejla Isik, a climate activist, emerged as the sole representative, joining a recognized group of women by the British state-run outlet.

Despite the presence of many Turkish women who have achieved significant success globally, the inclusion of only one woman’s name in the list of 100 individuals caught the attention of the Turkish public.

Who is Nejla Isik?

Nejla Isik, a farmer and environmental activist, gained attention in 2023 for her unwavering stand against deforestation in Türkiye’s Akbelen Forest. Protests erupted when coal mining expansions threatened the forest, prompting mass tree-cutting efforts.

In March 2024, she was elected as the village head (muhtar) of Ikizkoy in Mugla, where she has tirelessly fought deforestation for over five years, balancing her role as a community leader and environmental protector.

Why was Türkiye represented by only one woman?

Despite Türkiye being home to countless successful and inspiring women across diverse fields, only Nejla Isik made it to the 2024 BBC 100 Women list.

This highlights the ongoing need for greater recognition of Turkish women’s achievements globally.

About BBC 100 Women List

The BBC’s 100 Women List annually celebrates women driving societal change and tackling critical global issues. The 2024 edition emphasizes the impact of women fighting the climate crisis in their communities, celebrating their resilience and innovation.

This year’s list underscores the urgent need for action on climate change while spotlighting women creating ripples of change in their societies.

The BBC’s decision to include only one Turkish woman on its 100 Women list in 2024, while recognizing women from countries with less global visibility, points to an ongoing issue of insufficient international acknowledgment of Türkiye’s accomplished women.

While Nejla Isik’s recognition is deserved and important, it serves as a reminder that the world must broaden its lens and ensure Turkish women across all sectors are given the global recognition they deserve.