Turkish academic unions demand salary reforms and criticize YÖK

Turkish academic unions are calling for significant reforms and addressing ideological shifts within the higher education system. The Eğitim-Bir-Sen union has issued a report demanding an ‘academic raise,’ arguing that current salaries for academics do not align with their responsibilities or economic realities compared to other public roles. Their proposed reform package includes a new Higher Education Law to replace the 1981 legislation, a shift in associate professorship criteria to prioritize quality publications and patents over quantity, and improved conditions for administrative staff.

Simultaneously, the Eğitim-Sen union has criticized the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) for what it describes as ideological intervention. The criticism follows a directive from YÖK to implement activities aligned with the ‘Family and Population Decade’ in coordination with the Ministry of Family and Social Services. Eğitim-Sen argued that universities should focus on scientific inquiry and student needs—such as housing, food security, and rising living costs—rather than promoting specific family models or marriage education programs.