Turkey reports 40 months of single-digit unemployment

Turkey's Minister of Labour and Social Security, Vedat Işıkhan, announced that the national unemployment rate has remained in single digits for approximately 40 months. According to recent August data, the unemployment rate stands at 7.8%, while youth unemployment is recorded at 13%.

During a meeting regarding ‘New Working Methods in Working Life,’ Işıkhan discussed labor market policies within the framework of the 2027-2029 Medium Term Program (OVP). The discussions focused on implementing next-generation working models and increasing labor force participation. Key priorities include integrating groups that face difficulties entering the workforce, specifically through initiatives to boost female and youth employment.

Existing programs such as ‘İş Pozitif’ for women and ‘Gençliğin Üretim Çağı’ (GÜÇ) for youth are being utilized. The Ministry is also considering findings from the Central Bank’s inflation reports to design policies that address the heterogeneous nature of the potential workforce. The goal is to create an inclusive working life that protects rights and guarantees while meeting the changing needs of different employee groups and businesses.