Büyükçekmece's response to the war in Ukraine goes beyond aid, bringing together local residents, children, and institutions to deliver lasting humanitarian and psychosocial support.
A LOCAL GOVERNMENT RESPONDING TO A GLOBAL CRISIS
When war displaced millions of Ukrainians, Büyükçekmece Municipality chose to act. In cooperation with Dolyna Municipality and the Consulate General of Ukraine in Istanbul, the municipality provided free accommodation, food, and essential supplies to displaced individuals, sent two truckloads of humanitarian aid, supported healthcare infrastructure through equipment delivery, and hosted Ukrainian children for cultural and recreational programmes. Awareness-raising exhibitions were organised to engage the wider local community, making this a city-wide response rather than a purely institutional one.
SOLIDARITY AS A COMMUNITY EFFORT
What sets this initiative apart is how it involved local residents and the Büyükçekmece Children's Council as active participants rather than passive bystanders. Rather than limiting its response to emergency relief, the municipality developed a holistic model combining humanitarian assistance with psychosocial support and cultural activities. This participatory, cross-border approach enabled citizens, especially children, to contribute directly to solidarity efforts, fostering empathy, global citizenship, and a culture of peace at the local level.
FROM EMERGENCY TO ENDURING PARTNERSHIP
The initiative improved living conditions for war-affected individuals, supported the continuity of essential services, and contributed to the emotional recovery and social inclusion of Ukrainian children. Beyond immediate relief, it established an ongoing relationship with Dolyna Municipality and regular coordination with the Ukrainian Consulate, ensuring continued collaboration. By combining institutional commitment with active community participation, Büyükçekmece has created a replicable model that demonstrates how local governments can foster peace and resilience through coordinated humanitarian action.
