Turkish engineers professional rights movement

The Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB) has highlighted growing economic and social challenges facing the profession. During its 72nd anniversary celebrations, TMMOB President Ali Ekber Çakar noted that engineers, architects, and city planners are struggling with low wages, unemployment, job insecurity, and a devaluation of their professional roles. He also observed a shortage of technical personnel in the public sector and a trend of young professionals moving abroad.

In response to these issues, the TMMOB Chamber of Civil Engineers launched the “Our Demand is Our Future” campaign to address what representatives describe as the deepest economic crisis in the profession’s history. This initiative includes nationwide events scheduled for November 12, 2026, across 81 provinces. Local representatives in cities such as Gaziantep, Muğla, Tokat, and Edirne have called for simultaneous mass press conferences to combat low wages and precarious working conditions.

Representatives stated that the disregard for professional competence and the devaluation of engineering labor pose risks to public safety, specifically regarding the inspection and design of critical infrastructure such as dams, schools, hospitals, and bridges. The Chamber emphasized that protecting engineers' social rights is directly linked to ensuring safe construction and public safety in light of Turkey's earthquake risks.