Kirklareli Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen

Kirklareli Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (KESOB) was established in 1963 based on the Ahi Community, the historical roots of which stretch back to the XII century with the intention of establishing the dominance of honesty, trust and common sense in the relationships of profession members with each other and public correspondingly to the moral codes and customs, fulfilling the common needs of tradesmen, craftsmen and their employees, easing occupational activities, providing the development of the profession in accordance with its general interests.

KESOB, established pursuant to 507 numbered Tradesmen and Craftsmen Law, continues to operate within the frame of boundaries established with the said Law in accordance with the 5362 numbered Tradesmen and Craftsmen Professional Organisations Law which amended the 507 numbered Law. KESOB, in compliance with this Law, is a professional organisation which possesses legal entity with the characteristics of a public institution, executives of which accede with the elections under judicial control, duty, authority and responsibilities of whom designated by 5362 numbered Law, on the other hand which is independent in terms of management within the specified boundaries and holds a NGO characteristic in that sense. KESOB, currently, has approximately 12,000 tradesmen and craftsmen members. Concurrently 28 chambers of tradesmen and craftsmen are subsidiaries of KESOB.

KESOB Management places emphasis on representation of tradesmen and craftsmen for their voice to be heard on both national and local levels, undertakes the duty to be an active participant amongst non-governmental organisations in Kirklareli and Thrace Region, produces projects, supports the projects carried out by other organisaitons.

The Project of "Traditional Craft Professions and their Adaptation to the Economy in the Cross-Border Area" (CRAFTS) is regarded to be of great importance by our Chamber as the project will mediate and support the research of professions regarding handicrafts and their revival. Handicrafts are one of the important elements of a society's culture. Traditional forms of art in the province of Kirklareli, which has hosted a great variety of civilisations since the ancient age is fading away with the effect of rapid industrialisation. However, it is not just the traditional handicrafts that are fading but also a part of our culture. For that reason, we support and consider this project, of which we are a partner, to be of great importance.