Turkish Family Minister Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş warns of global fertility decline at Istanbul summit

Family and Social Services Minister Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş spoke at the ninth "Family in Turkey Century" summit held at the Istanbul Congress Center. She highlighted that falling birth rates have become a worldwide issue, noting that higher prosperity often coincides with rapid declines in fertility. Göktaş stressed the strategic importance of a young, dynamic population for all nations, linking demographic health to economic stability and social resilience.

The summit, organized by Albayrak Media, gathered ministry deputies, local officials, and civil‑society leaders to discuss the "Family and Population Ten‑Year" vision. Göktaş emphasized that family‑focused social policies are integral to Turkey’s development agenda, covering a wide range of services from child welfare to support for the elderly and veterans. She also addressed the role of digital media, stating the ministry seeks regulation rather than prohibition to protect families and children.

The event underlined the ministry’s expanded portfolio, including new directorates such as the Family Institute, and reaffirmed its commitment to support citizens throughout all life stages, from birth to death.