# Turkey cesarean section rate policy and implementation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/turkey-cesarean-section-rate-policy-and-implementation
> Updated: 2026-08-19T14:06:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

In July 2026, Turkey faced controversy after authorities penalized six obstetricians, barring them from practice for six months due to high cesarean-section rates. The sanctions drew criticism from the Ankara Medical Chamber and political figures, who argued that such measures undermine medical independence and could prioritize statistical targets over patient safety.

By August 2026, the Turkish Health Ministry reported a decline in cesarean rates, stating the total rate dropped from 62.8% to 58.5% following the implementation of the ‘Normal Birth Action Plan’. To support this initiative, the ministry has deployed 62,000 midwives nationwide and introduced various support measures, including pregnancy schools and digital guidance tools, to promote natural births and maternal health.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-19: Turkey reports decline in cesarean section rates

Turkish Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu reported a drop in cesarean section rates from 62.8% to 58.5% due to the ‘Normal Birth Action Plan’ and expanded midwifery services.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-reports-decline-in-cesarean-section-rates

### 2026-07-22: Turkey penalises obstetricians over high cesarean rates, sparking medical‑community backlash

Turkey bans six obstetricians for high cesarean rates, prompting criticism from CHP and the Ankara Medical Chamber over threats to medical independence and maternal safety.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkey-penalises-obstetricians-over-high-cesarean-rates-sparking-medicalcommunity-backlash

---
Cite as: Turkey cesarean section rate policy and implementation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/turkey-cesarean-section-rate-policy-and-implementation