Turkey targets 2.1 million new jobs in 2027-2029 economic plan

Turkey’s 2027-2029 Medium Term Program (OVP) outlines a strategic roadmap to transform the national labor market and boost employment. The program aims to create approximately 2.1 million additional jobs over the three-year period, with an average annual increase of 711,000 people. Through these measures, the government targets a gradual reduction in the unemployment rate to 8% in 2027, 7.8% in 2028, and 7.6% by 2029.

Labor Minister Işıkhan highlighted that the initiative focuses on more than just job creation; it emphasizes improving workforce quality and reducing skill mismatches. Key policy shifts include the development of new-generation working models, such as remote, hybrid, and flexible arrangements, under a framework of ‘secure flexibility’ to protect social security and job stability.

To support these economic shifts, the program intends to align higher education and vocational training with the evolving needs of the public and private sectors. This includes adjusting university quotas and vocational programs to ensure the workforce is prepared for technological transformations and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the workplace.