Safak Pavey is known for her international work in the field of human rights, humanitarian aid and peace-building with a background embracing international civil service, activism and journalism. The train accident she had whilst studying art and film in Zurich left her with one arm and leg, introducing her further to the world of disabled people, reshaping her perspective. Her struggle to continue her life as a young disabled woman before the public brought more visibility to the silent disabled community in her country as well as leading for change of attitude towards disabilities.
Safak chose to continue the struggle she gave for herself for others. Minorities, children, women who have been subject to violence, disabled people, refugees and all others whose rights have been violated became the focal point of her attention. She worked for various NGOs, developing national programs and international advocacy campaigns for human rights issues. She has also worked as a peace solutions activist in a number of conflict areas including Afghanistan.
Safak Pavey is a founding member of the UN interagency support group for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN IASG for CRPD). She left her position at the United Nations and was elected as Deputy of Istanbul at the 2011 elections in Turkey. Hence, she has become the first disabled female member of the Turkish Parliament.
Visit Safak at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hayen1
