Lockdowns and Domestic Violence: The Impact of Remote Work Regulations on Women Workers in Türkiye During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The article delves into the profound effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on remote work in Türkiye, with a specific emphasis on the challenges faced by women in the workforce. It explores how the pandemic catalysed a significant surge in remote work arrangements in Türkiye and investigates the resulting shifts in gender roles. The research primarily investigates the concerning issue of gender-based domestic violence against women working from their home offices. In doing so, it scrutinises the impact of the blurred lines between the private and public spheres, as well as the influence of anti-gender movements on the protection of women workers against gender-based domestic violence, especially in the context of Türkiye's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention—a leading human rights instrument addressing gender-based violence against women on the international stage. Additionally, the article delves into the legal regulations related to remote work and the safeguarding of women against violence in Türkiye. Ultimately, this research underscores the necessity for a human-centered recovery that takes into consideration the unique needs of women workers, particularly in terms of protection against domestic violence. In summary, this study raises two essential questions: How were women working remotely protected from domestic violence in Türkiye during the pandemic, and why?

Methodology:
This article employs a doctrinal research methodology, drawing from insights in political studies and sociology, particularly focusing on the concepts of the private-public dichotomy and anti-gender movements. The objective is to contextualise the legal framework in Türkiye. Türkiye was chosen strategically as the subject of study due to its distinctive position in relation to the Istanbul Convention. Türkiye was not only the first country to sign the Convention but it was also the first and only country to withdraw from it during the pandemic. This unique situation warranted careful examination.

Main Findings:
The article argues that the COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented and unparalleled collective experiment in human history, with a disproportionately adverse impact on vulnerable communities, particularly women. It highlights the inadequacies of Türkiye's legal framework concerning remote work and protection against gender-based domestic violence, especially for women working remotely. The article underscores that the emergence of anti-gender movements and the public-private dichotomy played pivotal roles in this inadequate response. It argues that remote working in the home office blurs the (so called) distinction between public / private, paid (work) / unpaid (nonwork) work, by bringing (public) `work` from the public sphere into the private sphere at home – into the castle of (private) `non-work`. The research emphasises the importance of adopting a gender-sensitive approach when addressing crises and references the ILO Recommendation No. 205.

Conclusion:
The study concludes with a strong assertion that addressing the complex and intersectional discrimination experienced by women workers as a group necessitates innovative approaches, considering the unequal structures present in the working environment. It is imperative to acknowledge that gender equality and the empowerment of women hold transformative potential crucial for responding to crises, fostering sustainable recovery, and building resilience.

Keywords: Remote Work, Gender-based Violence against Women, Domestic Violence, Gender-based Workplace Violence, COVID-19 Pandemic, Public-Private Dichotomy, Anti-Gender Movements, Employment law, Istanbul Convention, ILO Recommendation No. 205, ILO Convention No. 190, Turkish Labour Law