Sustainable Development and Urban Research Association

SÜRKAD – Sustainable Development and Urban Research Association is an Istanbul-based civil society organisation established as an initiative in 2007 and formally registered as an association in 2023. It works in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to advance youth participation, urban and environmental rights, climate justice, democratic local governance and active citizenship. SÜRKAD brings together civil society organisations, young people, volunteers, universities, municipalities, public institutions and policy experts. Its activities include research, monitoring, non-formal learning, workshops, stakeholder dialogues, capacity-building programmes, publications and national and international cooperation projects. Through its Urban Rights Monitoring Centre (KEHİM), SÜRKAD promotes evidence-based monitoring of local policies and meaningful public participation in decision-making. The organisation is particularly interested in developing Erasmus+ Youth and European Solidarity Corps partnerships focused on youth participation in local decision-making, sustainable and inclusive cities, climate action, human rights, democracy, digital participation and intercultural dialogue. SÜRKAD can contribute research and policy expertise, links with municipalities and universities, stakeholder engagement, training content, dissemination, local pilot activities and the participation of young people and volunteers. It is open to long-term partnerships with reliable organisations that value inclusion, transparency, shared responsibility and measurable social impact.