Women's labor force participation rates are acknowledged as fundamental indicators of the economic and social development of societies. In Turkey, as of 2015, the female labor force participation rate stands at a mere 31.5%, a figure significantly lower than international benchmarks. Cooperatives are vital socio-economic structures established to provide social, cultural, and economic benefits, particularly empowering women to combat poverty and generate employment. Women's cooperatives are increasingly recognized as critical mechanisms that not only aim for economic gains but also support social objectives such as education and organization. Recently, local women in Niğde province have been actively participating in economic activities by collectively producing and marketing regional products. Particularly, the Denee Women's Cooperative, located in Yeşilburç village, established in 2022, has demonstrated a successful performance by working with the local community until today. Therefore, this study examines the types of regional revitalization through cooperatives in the region and the positive impacts of women's participation in economic activities within the region. Furthermore, by presenting a successful women's cooperative model, the study aims to explore the potential of this model as a sustainable development strategy for disadvantaged rural communities and to derive practical insights that can contribute to the development of rural communities.
Women's labor force, Women's cooperatives, Niğde Province, Yeşilburç village, sustainable development