Ezel brings years of experience advocating for women’s and LGBTQI+ rights, both professionally and voluntarily. Together, the team unpacks what the Istanbul Convention represents, the implications of Türkiye’s decision, and the current challenges faced by activists and communities on the ground.

Join this insightful conversation to understand the stakes of this pivotal moment for gender equality and human rights in Türkiye, and hear firsthand perspectives from those fighting for change.

Guest bio

She was born in Istanbul in 1991. Feminist, lawyer. For more than 15 years, she has been working professionally and/or voluntarily in the field of women's and LGBTQI+ rights. She is currently the advocacy coordinator at the Women for Women's Human Rights Association. She received her LL.M. in International Human Rights Law from Lund University and her PhD in Public Law from Koç University. Her research focuses on human rights law, philosophy of law, legal theory and gender studies. She is also a musician and plays drums.

Additional resources 

Women for Women’s Human Rights (WWHR) https://wwhr.org/ 

Action against violence against women and domestic violence - Istanbul Convention: https://www.coe.int/en/web/istanbul-convention

Text of the Istanbul Convention: https://www.coe.int/en/web/istanbul-convention/text-of-the-convention 

The Istanbul Convention: A tool to tackle violence against women and girls https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/ATAG/2018/630297/EPRS_ATA(2018)630297_EN.pdf 

Women for Women’s Human Rights (WWHR) https://wwhr.org/international-conventions-and-mechanisms/the-istanbul-convention/ 

Financial literacy isn’t just about budgeting—it’s about making informed choices when opening bank accounts, taking out loans, investing, or avoiding scams. Yet studies show that women, young people, lower-income individuals, and those with less formal education often face gaps in financial knowledge. These disparities extend further, affecting people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ communities, and people of color, who encounter systemic barriers to financial education, employment, and wealth-building opportunities.

With inflation, rising interest rates, and a complex financial landscape, understanding money has never been more critical. Join us as we explore how financial literacy intersects with inequality, why it’s essential for personal and collective well-being, and what can be done to empower more people to navigate their finances with confidence. 

Additional resources

Huff, D. & Calman, M. (1991 )."How to Lie with Statistics". Penguin books https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/13565/how-to-lie-with-statistics-by-darrell-huff-with-pictures-by-mel-calman/9780140136296

Kahneman D. (2012). "Thinking, Fast and Slow". Penguin books https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/56314/thinking-fast-and-slow-by-kahneman-daniel/9780141033570

Dunlap, T. (2022).  Financial Feminist: Overcome the Patriarchy’s Bullsh*t to Master Your Money and Build a Life You Love―A Personal Finance Handbook for Women, Mindful Spending, and Financial Literacy. Dey Street Books https://www.harpercollins.com/products/financial-feminist-tori-dunlap & https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/financial-feminist-overcome-the-patriarchys-bullsht-to-master-your-money-and-build-a-life-you-love-tori-dunlap

Bruegel. (2023). The state of financial knowledge in the European Union: Gender and age disparities. Retrieved from https://www.bruegel.org/policy-brief/state-financial-knowledge-european-union

European Commission. (2023, July). Financial literacy – Eurobarometer survey results. Retrieved from https://finance.ec.europa.eu/consumer-finance-and-payments/financial-literacy_en

European Commission. (n.d.). Financial literacy. Retrieved from https://finance.ec.europa.eu/consumer-finance-and-payments/financial-literacy_en

European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA). (n.d.). How do inflation and the rise in interest rates affect my money? Retrieved from https://www.eiopa.europa.eu/document/download/fb8310de-bcf4-410d-b9b1-f04b40b25a03_en

European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA). (n.d.). Investment, loan, insurance or pensions with a sustainable focus: What do you need to know? Retrieved from https://www.esma.europa.eu/document/download

European Disability Forum. (2023). The impact of the cost of living crisis on persons with disabilities. Retrieved from https://www.edf-feph.org/the-impact-of-the-cost-of-living-crisis-on-persons-with-disabilities/

Eurostat. (2023). Disability statistics: Financial situation and poverty risk. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Disability_statistics_-_financial_situation

Mercer. (2022). A new approach to financial wellness for LGBTQ employees. Retrieved from https://www.mercer.com/insights/talent-and-transformation/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/a-new-approach-to-financial-wellness-for-lgbtq-employees/Williams Institute. (2019). National LGBTQ+ poverty study. Retrieved from https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/publications/national-lgbtq-poverty-study/

Today’s topic: gender bias in AI, AI assistants, and the idea of digital domesticity.

Why do so many virtual assistants default to women’s voices? What assumptions about care, service, and authority are quietly coded into the technologies we use every day? And how do historical gender roles resurface in supposedly “neutral” innovations?

From algorithmic bias to the feminization of digital labor, the team unpacks how artificial intelligence can reinforce — or challenge — existing power structures. Thoughtful, candid, and reflective, this episode invites you to rethink the invisible norms shaping our digital world.

Additional resources 

Garland, A. (Director). (2014). Ex Machina [Film]. A24; Universal Pictures; Film4; DNA Films; AC Films; Scott Rudin Productions https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0470752/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy

Hillenburg S. & Jennings N.& Hill,T (Executive Producer). (1999 - present). SpongeBob SquarePants [TV series]. Nickelodeon Animation Studios; Nicktoons Productions; United Plankton Pictures https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0206512/?ref_=ttco_ov_bk 

In this episode of the Intersectionality Lab podcast, Muskaan and Almina — joined by Hilal — unpack the culture of overconsumption and the powerful systems that keep it alive. From the constant churn of fast fashion to the staggering food waste generated by global fast-food chains, they explore how “more” became synonymous with success, status, and happiness.

Grounded in research and everyday observation, the conversation breaks down how overconsumption shows up in our daily routines — in what we wear, what we eat, and what we throw away. Why do brands release new collections daily? How did convenience culture normalize excess? And who ultimately pays the environmental and social price?

Tune in for a reflective and eye-opening discussion that challenges the idea that fulfillment can be bought — and asks what a more sustainable, intentional future could look like.

Additional resources 

Verrette, T. (Director). (2021). Zero gravity [Documentary]. Skylight Cinema; 20th Digital Studio. https://vimeo.com/756899043?fl=pl&fe=sh

Stanton, A. (Director). (2008) WALL·E [Film]. Walt Disney Pictures; Pixar Animation Studios; FortyFour Studios

https://www.imdb.com/pt/title/tt0910970/?ref_=ttco_ov_bk

Hogan, P.J.(Director). (2009). Confessions of a Shopaholic [Film]. Touchstone Pictures; Jerry Bruckheimer Films

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1093908

Crane, D. & Kauffman, M. (Executive Producer). (1994–2004). Friends [TV Series].   Bright/Kauffman/Crane Productions; Warner Bros. Television

https://www.imdb.com/pt/title/tt0108778

Johansen,S & Rivo, S. (Director). (2019). Broken. [Film]. Zero Point Zero Production; Netflix. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11168226 

In this unfiltered episode of The Intersectionality Lab, host Almina is joined by Muskaan, Gillian, and Ana Catarina for a bold, nuanced conversation about one of today’s most debated gender concepts. Together, they unpack the origins of toxic femininity, the stereotypes and social pressures that shape it, and the ways it can reinforce — rather than dismantle — harmful gender norms.

Blending personal reflections with cultural analysis and academic perspectives, the hosts explore how expectations around agreeableness, appearance, competition, and “niceness” intersect with benevolent sexism and broader systems of inequality. From viral social media trends to everyday workplace dynamics, they examine how these patterns show up in real life — and who they impact most.

Provocative, reflective, and deeply intersectional, this episode invites you to question assumptions, challenge binaries, and rethink what gender norms are really doing beneath the surface. Tune in and join the conversation.

Additional resources 

Anderson, K. V. (2023, August 8). The movie “Barbie” has put the phrase “toxic femininity” back in the news – here’s what it means and why you should care. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/the-movie-barbie-has-put-the-phrase-toxic-femininity-back-in-the-news-heres-what-it-means-and-why-you-should-care-205884

Glick, Peter & Fiske, Susan. (1996). The Ambivalent Sexism Inventory: Differentiating Hostile and Benevolent Sexism. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 70. 491-512. doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.70.3.491

Naraharisetty, R. (2022).The Internet Wants to Talk About “Toxic Femininity,” but Gets It All Wrong. Www.theswaddle.com. https://www.theswaddle.com/the-internet-wants-to-talk-about-toxic-femininity-but-gets-it-all-wrong

Saxena, T. (n.d.). Is toxic femininity a thing? Deccan Herald. https://www.deccanherald.com/features/gender/is-toxic-femininity-a-thing-2716864

Strong, R. (2022, June 26). Identifying and Overcoming Toxic Femininity. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/toxic-femininity

Risam, R. (2015). Toxic Femininity 4.0. First Monday, Volume 20, Number 4. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.13013/416

From the stigma men face around vulnerability and mental health to the ways harmful masculine ideals fuel misogyny and homophobia, this conversation digs into the research, the backlash, and the lived experiences behind the headlines. David brings years of anti-discrimination and social justice work to the table, challenging us to rethink what strength, leadership, and identity can look like.

This episode goes beyond critique — it’s about possibility. What would masculinity look like if it embraced emotional honesty, accountability, and equality? Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on moving from toxic masculinity to a healthier, more inclusive vision of manhood.

You can check more resources at https://il.npo.one

Guest bio

David Almeida is a social justice advocate, sustainability enthusiast, and civic participation activist with nearly a decade of experience in grassroots organizing and advocacy. His recent work has focused on gender equality, while his broader interests span topics from artificial intelligence and climate justice to epistemic decolonisation.

David currently works in scientific software development for a climate change programme at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis in Austria. He brings an interdisciplinary background in Data Science and Cell and Molecular Biology to his work at the intersection of science, technology, and social impact.

Previously, he contributed to anti-corruption efforts at Transparency International Portugal, supporting initiatives that promote accountability and democratic integrity.

https://davidalmeida.eu

Additional resources 

Bernstein, M. (2024). What’s the weirdest thing you’ve been told you can’t do because it’s ‘gay’? https://www.instagram.com/p/DBj70xFBv0I

Connell, R. W., & Messerschmidt, J. W. (2005). Hegemonic Masculinity: Rethinking the Concept. Gender & Society, 19(6), 829–859. https://doi.org/10.1177/0891243205278639

Edwards, S. (2020). Toxic Masculinity: Roots, Reality, and Breaking the Cycle . https://doi.org/10.17615/j2wy-sj91

Kupers, T. A. (2005). Toxic masculinity as a barrier to mental health treatment in prison. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 61(6), 713–724. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.20105 

Makhanya, M. T. B. (2023). Causes and Consequences of Toxic Masculinity: Can HeForShe Be a Solution for Gender-Based Violence? https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.110872 Sculos, B. W. (2017). Who’s Afraid of ‘Toxic Masculinity’? Class, Race and Corporate Power, 5(3). https://www.jstor.org/stable/48645481

UN Women (2024) HeForShe Alliance Impact Report 2024 Launch, HeForShe. Available at: https://www.heforshe.org/en/heforshe-alliance-impact-report-2024-launch (Accessed: 27 October 2024).

Zega, O. D. K., Koritelu, P., & Murwani, P. (2024). Fighting Stereotypes: Expressions of Femininity in Public Spaces and the Challenge of Toxic Masculinity. Baileo: Jurnal Sosial Humaniora, 2(1), 18-26. https://doi.org/10.30598/baileofisipvol2iss1pp18-26

For decades, war, displacement, and political persecution have disproportionately targeted queer communities and marginalized ethnic groups in the region. When borders close and systems fail, Queer Svit steps in. From emergency consultations and evacuation planning to purchasing travel tickets, securing safe housing, and delivering life-saving humanitarian aid, this global network of volunteers is redefining what grassroots solidarity looks like in action.

We’re joined by Anna-Maria, Co-founder and CEO of Queer Svit, who shares the powerful origin story behind the organization, the urgent realities facing LGBTQ+ refugees today, and how mutual aid can become a lifeline in times of war. This is a conversation about resilience, chosen family, and what it truly means to build safety when the world feels unsafe.

You can check more resources at https://il.npo.one

Guest bio

Anna-Maria, queer and anti-racist activist, documentary filmmaker and journalist. Co-founder of Queer Svit, a grass-root that helps queer people and the global majority affected by war in Ukraine and/or Russian political regime.

Additional resources

https://queersvit.org

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziIhJjCnL84

https://www.uusc.org/initiatives/queer-svit

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-maria-tesfaye-22028712a

https://instagram.com/ennievicious

In this candid Unfiltered Session, our hosts break down what intersectionality really means, where it comes from, and why it matters now more than ever. Through honest reflection and sharp discussion, we explore everyday situations, systemic inequalities, and the power dynamics that often go unnoticed—but deeply affect our lives.

From using intersectionality as an analytical lens to reveal how systems of power operate, to real-world examples like domestic violence policies and participatory research with marginalized youth, this episode brings theory into practice. Along the way, our hosts share how learning about intersectionality transformed their perspectives, influenced their work, and deepened their understanding of inequality.

🎧 Tune in to rethink the way you see the world—and join the conversation. Visit our website for bonus resources, a comprehensive glossary, and updates on upcoming episodes.

You can check more resources at https://il.npo.one

Additional resources (books, reference materials, social media from guests, materials that the guests want to promote):

Phoenix, A., & Pattynama, P. (2006). Intersectionality. European Journal of Women’s Studies, 13(3), 187-192. https://doi.org/10.1177/1350506806065751 (Original work published 2006)

Shields, S.A. Gender: An Intersectionality Perspective. Sex Roles 59, 301–311 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11199-008-9501-8

McCall, L. (2005). The Complexity of Intersectionality. Signs, 30(3), 1771–1800. https://doi.org/10.1086/426800

RUNYAN, A. S. (2018). What Is Intersectionality and Why Is It Important? Academe, 104(6), 10–14. https://www.jstor.org/stable/26606288

Zinn, Maxine Baca & Dill, Bonnie Thornton (1996). Theorizing Difference from Multiracial Feminism. Feminist Studies 22 (2):321-331.

Check the video in which Kinmerlè Crenshaw explains what is intersectionality: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViDtnfQ9FHc

Crenshaw, Kimberle (1989) "Demarginalizing the Intersection of Race and Sex: A Black Feminist Critique of Antidiscrimination Doctrine, Feminist Theory and Antiracist Politics," University of Chicago Legal Forum: Vol. 1989, Article 8.

Available at: https://chicagounbound.uchicago.edu/uclf/vol1989/iss1/8

Crenshaw, K. (1991). Mapping the Margins: Intersectionality, Identity Politics, and Violence against Women of Color. Stanford Law Review, 43(6), 1241–1299. https://doi.org/10.2307/1229039

Levine-Rasky, C. (2011). Intersectionality theory applied to whiteness and middle-classness. Social Identities: Journal for the Study of Race, Nation and Culture, 17(2), 239–253. https://doi.org/10.1080/13504630.2011.558377

Helma Lutz. (2015). Intersectionality as Method. DiGeSt. Journal of Diversity and Gender Studies, 2(1–2), 39–44. https://doi.org/10.11116/jdivegendstud.2.1-2.0039

Atewologun, D. (2018). Intersectionality Theory and Practice. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Business and Management. 

Misra, J., Curington, C. V., & Green, V. M. (2021). Methods of intersectional research. Sociological Spectrum, 41(1), 9–28. https://doi.org/10.1080/02732173.2020.1791772

Ruiz AM, Luebke J, Klein K, Moore K, Gonzalez M, Dressel A, Mkandawire-Valhmu L. An integrative literature review and critical reflection of intersectionality theory. Nurs Inq. 2021 Dec;28(4):e12414. doi: 10.1111/nin.12414. Epub 2021 Jun 21. PMID: 34153140.

Haynes, C., Joseph, N. M., Patton, L. D., Stewart, S., & Allen, E. L. (2020). Toward an Understanding of Intersectionality Methodology: A 30-Year Literature Synthesis of Black Women’s Experiences in Higher Education. Review of Educational Research, 90(6), 751-787. https://doi.org/10.3102/0034654320946822 (Original work published 2020)