Poverty in Turkey

Turkey made steady progress in reducing poverty from the early 2000s to the mid-2010s.

Introduction

Poverty in Turkey is a multifaceted issue that continues to pose challenges for a significant portion of the population. Despite Turkey's status as a middle-income country with a growing economy, poverty remains a persistent problem, particularly affecting vulnerable groups and marginalized communities.

The causes of poverty in Turkey are diverse and interconnected, influenced by factors such as limited access to education, high unemployment rates, income inequality, regional disparities, and inadequate social welfare systems. One of the key factors contributing to poverty in Turkey is the disparity in educational opportunities. Limited access to quality education, especially in rural areas, can hinder individuals from acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge to secure stable employment and break the cycle of poverty. Additionally, high levels of unemployment and underemployment, particularly among youth and women, further exacerbate economic hardship for many Turkish citizens. Income inequality is another significant issue that perpetuates poverty in Turkey.

The gap between the wealthy and the poor continues to widen, with certain regions and communities experiencing greater levels of deprivation and lack of economic opportunities. This disparity not only affects individuals' access to basic necessities but also hinders social mobility and perpetuates intergenerational poverty. Moreover, the lack of effective social welfare systems and inadequate government support contribute to the persistence of poverty in Turkey. Despite efforts to implement social assistance programs, there are still gaps in coverage and efficiency, leaving many vulnerable populations without adequate support. This is particularly evident in rural areas and among minority groups who face additional barriers to accessing essential services and resources.

Addressing poverty in Turkey requires a comprehensive approach that tackles its root causes and provides sustainable solutions. Investing in education and skills development, promoting inclusive economic growth, enhancing social protection programs, and empowering marginalized communities are essential steps towards alleviating poverty and promoting social inclusion in the country. While Turkey has made progress in reducing poverty rates over the years, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all citizens have equal opportunities to thrive and improve their quality of life. By addressing the underlying factors contributing to poverty and implementing targeted interventions, Turkey can move closer to achieving a more equitable and prosperous society for all its inhabitants.

Poverty is a persistent challenge in Turkey, affecting a significant portion of the population. According to the Turkish Statistical Institute, the poverty rate in the country stood at 21.2% in 2022, with over 17 million people living below the poverty line. Poverty in Turkey is a multifaceted issue, stemming from a range of interconnected factors such as limited access to education, high unemployment rates, income inequality, regional disparities, and inadequate social welfare systems. These issues not only contribute to material deprivation but also perpetuate social exclusion and hinder the overall well-being of individuals and communities.

Despite the Turkish government's efforts to tackle poverty, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, leading to a surge in unemployment and reducing the purchasing power of low-income households. To address poverty in Turkey, a comprehensive and sustained effort is needed. Investing in education and skills development, promoting inclusive economic growth, enhancing social protection programs, and empowering marginalized communities are essential steps towards alleviating poverty and promoting social inclusion in the country. in conclusion, poverty remains a significant challenge in Turkey that requires urgent attention. By addressing the underlying causes of poverty and implementing targeted interventions, Turkey can move closer to achieving a more equitable and prosperous society for all its inhabitants.

Definitions

The Turkish Statistical Institute publishes rates of poverty at 40%, 50%, 60% and 70% of median equivalized household disposable income. UNICEF used the above 60% figure to estimate that over a third of children were poor on average 2019 to 2021. The World Bank’s poverty line for middle-income countries is $5.50 a day (in 2011 dollars).

Poverty can be understood as a complex and multidimensional condition characterized by a lack of resources and opportunities necessary for individuals and communities to lead a dignified and fulfilling life. It encompasses not only a scarcity of material possessions and income but also inadequate access to essential services such as education, healthcare, housing, and social support systems. Additionally, poverty often results in social exclusion, limited participation in decision-making processes, and a diminished sense of agency and empowerment.

At its core, poverty is a manifestation of systemic inequities and structural barriers that perpetuate economic and social disparities. It is not solely an issue of individual circumstances but is deeply rooted in broader societal factors such as unequal distribution of wealth, limited access to employment, discrimination, and insufficient social safety nets. These factors interact in complex ways, creating a web of challenges that hinder individuals and communities from breaking free from the cycle of poverty. Furthermore, poverty extends beyond financial hardship and material deprivation. It can also manifest in the form of poor physical and mental health, reduced access to quality education, limited social networks, and a lack of opportunities for personal and professional development. These dimensions of poverty contribute to a sense of exclusion and marginalization, further perpetuating the cycle of disadvantage for those affected.

Addressing poverty requires a holistic approach that recognizes its multidimensional nature. Effective interventions should not only focus on improving income levels but also aim to enhance access to essential services, promote social inclusion, and empower individuals to participate fully in society. By addressing the underlying causes of poverty and implementing comprehensive strategies, it is possible to create a more equitable and just society where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential. conclusion, poverty represents a profound and entrenched challenge that requires a deep understanding of its multidimensional nature. By acknowledging the complexity of poverty and its far-reaching impacts, societies can work towards implementing sustainable and inclusive solutions that address the root causes of poverty and create pathways for individuals and communities to break free from its grip.

Rate of poverty

The 2023 EU report on the country said "Türkiye still lacks a dedicated poverty reduction strategy. Sustained price increases further posed the risk of poverty for the unemployed and wage laborers in precarious jobs. The poverty rate reached 14.4%, up from 13.8% in 2021. The severe-material-deprivation rate reached 28.4% in 2022 (2021: 27.2%). The child poverty rate for 2022 was particularly high at 41.6%. In 2022, social assistance payments amounted to TRY 151.9 billion, or 1.01% of GDP. Türkiye has fragmented benefits at local and national level, and it still lacks a general minimum income scheme."

Causes of poverty

* Female labor force participation was estimated by Turkstat as 30.4% in 2022, less than half that of men. Gender inequalities persist in access to economic opportunities and the female labor participation remains very low.Cuberes, D., and Marc Teignier. “How Costly Are Labor Gender Gaps? Estimates for the Balkans and Turkey.” Policy Research Working Paper Series 7319, World Bank, Washington, DC. 2015. Turkey ranked 130 out of 145 countries in the Global Gender Gap rankings. Female participation in the workplace has been increasing as a percentage and are forecasted to increase in a sustained way as Turkey transitions towards a high-income economy.

* Low productivity in the agriculture sector. Agriculture in Turkey employs about 20% of the working population with a very low labor productivity, which translates into limited earnings potential.Bozoghu, M., and V. Ceyhan. 2007. “Measuring the technical efficiency and exploring the inefficiency determinants of vegetable farms in Samsun, Turkey”. Agricultural System. Vol 94: 2007 pp. 649-656. While the Turkish agriculture remains the largest producer of hazelnut, cherry and apricot in the world, the average size of farms at 2 ha is very low and discourages investment opportunities.

* Low national savings rate and low FDI. Having a very low domestic savings rate, Turkey is dependent on capital inflows to finance its structural current account deficit.Creating Good Jobs. Forthcoming. Washington, DC: World Bank. Despite its dependence on outside financing, Turkey attracts very little FDI—on average US$12.75 billion per year during 2003–2015.

* Exposure to natural disasters. Over 2 million Turks and more than 6% of Turkey's GDP are exposed to disasters at any given year—ranking 9th globallyHentschel, J., Meltem Aran, Raif Can, Francisco Ferreira, Jeremie Gignoux, and Arzu Uraz. Life Chances in Turkey: Expanding Opportunities for the Next Generation. World Bank. 2010. with respect to GDP exposure to earthquakes—because of Turkey's high risk of earthquakes, flooding and forest fires.
* Monetary policy. Most economists say that low interest rates in the early 2020s raised inflation. Poorer people have suffered more inflation.There are several factors that contribute to the high levels of poverty in Turkey
* In Turkey is influenced by various factors that have a significant impact on the well-being of its citizens. One of the critical issues is the low participation of women in the labor force, with a participation rate of only 30.4% in 2022. Gender inequality in access to economic opportunities continues to be a persistent problem, with Turkey ranking 130th out of 145 countries in the Global Gender Gap rankings. Encouraging women's participation in the workplace is seen as a crucial factor in reducing poverty and promoting economic growth. Another factor affecting poverty in Turkey is the agriculture sector, which employs about 20% of the working population but has a low labor productivity. The average size of farms in Turkey is only 2 hectares, discouraging investment opportunities in the sector. While the country remains the largest producer of hazelnuts, cherries, and apricots in the world, limited earnings potential in the sector impacts the overall economic situation.
* Turkey's low domestic savings rate and dependence on capital inflows to finance its structural current account deficit is another issue contributing to poverty. Despite this, Turkey attracts very little foreign direct investment (FDI), averaging only US$12.75 billion per year during 2003-2015. This lack of investment makes it difficult for the country to develop economically and creates challenges in addressing poverty. Turkey is also highly exposed to natural disasters, with over 2 million citizens and more than 6% of the country's GDP at risk of being affected each year. Turkey ranks 9th globally in terms of GDP exposure to earthquakes, floods, and forest fires, making it a challenging environment to maintain sustainable development.
* The country's monetary policy has also affected poverty, with low interest rates in the early 2020s leading to higher inflation rates that have disproportionately affected poorer citizens. Additionally, a significant proportion of the poor population has limited or no access to education, with 26.9% of individuals being illiterate and 42.4% being primary school graduates. This lack of education limits job opportunities and contributes to poverty. The household makeup in Turkey also plays a role in poverty, with the mean household size increasing in poorer households. Nearly six out of 10 households have more than four members, with 45.6% of the poorest women being housewives.
* The burden of fulfilling the basic needs of the entire family often falls on men as the number of people in households increases. Finally, the rise in external immigration and refugees has strained Turkey's resources, with around 4.1 million immigrants from Iran, Iraq, Bosnia, and Syria. The drastic increase in population has left more people confined to the poverty trap prevalent in the nation. Overall, these factors highlight the complex challenges that Turkey faces in addressing poverty and creating a more equitable society for its citizens. Let's delve into some additional information about poverty Causes of Poverty is a complex phenomenon influenced by a multitude of interconnected factors. Some common causes include Lack of Education: Limited access to quality education can perpetuate poverty by hindering individuals' ability to secure better employment opportunities and break free from the cycle of poverty. Unemployment and Underemployment: Insufficient job opportunities and low wages can lead to financial instability and make it difficult for individuals to meet their basic needs.
* Discrimination and Inequality: Marginalized groups, such as women, ethnic minorities, and individuals with disabilities, often face systemic discrimination and unequal access to resources and opportunities, contributing to their higher likelihood of experiencing poverty. Poor Governance and Corruption: Weak governance, corruption, and inadequate social safety nets can exacerbate poverty by diverting resources away from those who need them the most. Economic Factors: Economic downturns limited economic growth, and unequal distribution of wealth can contribute to the prevalence and persistence of poverty. Measuring Poverty Measuring poverty is crucial for understanding its extent and designing effective interventions. Various methods are employed, including. Absolute Poverty Line: This approach establishes a minimum income or consumption level necessary to meet basic human needs, such as food, shelter, and healthcare. Relative Poverty: Relative poverty measures compare an individual or family's income or consumption to the average income or consumption within a specific society or country.
* Multidimensional Poverty: This approach considers multiple dimensions of poverty, including education, health, standard of living, and social exclusion. Global Poverty is a global issue that affects countries across the world, albeit to varying degrees. According to the World Bank, extreme poverty has been gradually decreasing over the past few decades, but significant challenges remain. Factors such as armed conflict, political instability, natural disasters, and climate change can exacerbate poverty in certain regions *Efforts to Alleviate Poverty Governments, international organizations, and civil society play crucial roles in addressing poverty. Some strategies include Social Safety Nets: Implementing social welfare programs, such as cash transfers, food assistance, and healthcare subsidies, to provide immediate support to those in need. Education and Skills Development: Investing in quality education and vocational training programs to enhance individuals' employability and long-term income potential. Economic Development:
* Promoting sustainable economic growth and creating job opportunities to uplift individuals and communities out of poverty. Empowering Marginalized Groups: Ensuring equal rights and opportunities for marginalized populations to address systemic inequalities. Access to Basic Services: Improving access to healthcare, clean water, sanitation, and housing to enhance quality of life and well-being. Efforts to combat poverty require a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, involving collaboration between governments, communities, and individuals to address its root causes and create sustainable solutions.

Poverty alleviation measures

* Establishment of universal health coverage in 2003.

* Seismic risk reduction program. Turkey pioneered a seismic mitigation and emergency preparedness project that has been a model internationally. The program—which started in 2006—addresses the vulnerability of public buildings through creating development standards and third-party review.

* Turkey's risk insurance scheme for private property—established in 1999—is considered to be a proactive and world-class example that other countries imitate.Ministry of Forestry and Water Affairs. “Assessment of Climate Change Impact on Water Resources”. General Directorate of Water Management, Turkey. 2016. However, the insurance program does not have differentiating tariffs that could provide incentives for disaster-resistant construction.
* Islamic charity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the issue of poverty in Turkey is a multifaceted challenge that requires a comprehensive and sustained effort to address. It encompasses a wide range of interconnected factors, including limited access to education, high unemployment rates, income inequality, regional disparities, and inadequate social welfare systems. These issues not only contribute to material deprivation but also perpetuate social exclusion and hinder the overall well-being of individuals and communities.

While Turkey has made progress in reducing poverty rates, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all citizens have equal opportunities to thrive and improve their quality of life. It is imperative to recognize that poverty is not solely an issue of individual circumstances but is deeply rooted in broader societal factors. Therefore, addressing poverty in Turkey requires a holistic approach that tackles its underlying causes and provides sustainable solutions. Investing in education and skills development, promoting inclusive economic growth, enhancing social protection programs, and empowering marginalized communities are essential steps towards alleviating poverty and promoting social inclusion in the country.

By addressing the multidimensional nature of poverty and implementing targeted interventions, Turkey can move closer to achieving a more equitable and prosperous society for all its inhabitants. Ultimately, overcoming poverty in Turkey demands a collective effort from government, civil society, and the private sector to create an enabling environment where individuals and communities can break free from the cycle of disadvantage. By fostering a culture of inclusivity, promoting equal opportunities, and addressing systemic barriers, Turkey can work towards building a society where every individual has the chance to lead a dignified and fulfilling life. Together, by acknowledging the complexity of poverty and its far-reaching impacts, we can strive to create a more just and equitable society for present and future generations.

Lead

In Turkey, the issue of child poverty is a significant concern that demands urgent attention. With a high poverty rate of 41.6% in 2022, the situation is deeply troubling. According to UNICEF, in 2020, 32% of children were living in poor households, and 34% were experiencing various forms of material deprivation. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the plight of children, potentially increasing the child poverty rate from a baseline of 15.4% to 24.7%. This increase underscores the critical need for targeted interventions and support systems to uplift vulnerable children and families across the country. furthermore, the low rate of female labor force participation in Turkey is a pressing issue.

In 2022, only 30.4% of women were estimated to be participating in the workforce, significantly lower than their male counterparts. This disparity is stark when compared to the OECD and EU-19 averages of 61% and 64% for female labor force participation, respectively. The underrepresentation of women in the workforce not only hinders their economic empowerment but also represents a missed opportunity for the country's overall development. Addressing this gender gap is essential for reducing poverty and fostering sustainable economic growth. Turkey's agricultural sector, which employs approximately 15% of the workforce, faces challenges related to low productivity.

Despite being a major food producer, Turkey is a net importer of wheat, with a significant portion of its supply coming from Russia and Ukraine. Enhancing the productivity and resilience of the agricultural sector is crucial for reducing poverty and ensuring food security for the population. The country is also highly vulnerable to natural disasters, including earthquakes and floods, which pose a significant threat to both lives and livelihoods. Over 2 million people and more than 6% of Turkey's GDP are exposed to disasters annually. The devastating floods that occurred in the Black Sea region in 2023 resulted in significant damage and loss of life, further underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and mitigation measures.

Turkey's monetary policy has also played a role in shaping its economic landscape. While many countries have raised policy rates to combat inflation, Turkey has taken the opposite approach by lowering interest rates. This divergence has contributed to economic instability and challenges in controlling inflation, further impacting the welfare of the population. Amid these challenges, Turkey has implemented various poverty alleviation measures, including the establishment of universal health coverage in 2003 and a seismic risk reduction program. The World Bank reports that the share of people living below the $6.85 per day poverty line nearly halved to 9.8% between 2006 and 2020, indicating progress in poverty reduction efforts. These initiatives reflect Turkey's commitment to addressing poverty and improving the well-being of its citizens, despite the complex and multifaceted nature of the challenges at hand.

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Turkey's commitment to poverty alleviation is evident through its comprehensive measures aimed at improving the well-being of its citizens. One of the significant steps taken by Turkey is the establishment of universal health coverage in 2003.This system ensures that every resident in Turkey has access to comprehensive healthcare services, regardless of their financial situation.

It covers a wide range of services, including preventive and curative care, hospital treatments, and prescription medications. This initiative has played a crucial role in reducing the financial burden of healthcare on individuals and families, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation. response to the country's vulnerability to natural disasters, especially earthquakes, Turkey has implemented a pioneering seismic risk reduction program. This program, which started in 2006, focuses on mitigating the vulnerability of public buildings through the development of strict construction standards and third-party reviews.

By enhancing the resilience of infrastructure and public spaces, Turkey aims to minimize the impact of natural disasters on communities, particularly those already facing economic challenges. Social assistance payments are another essential component of Turkey's poverty alleviation strategy. In 2022, these payments amounted to TRY 151.9 billion, equivalent to 1.01% of the country's GDP. These payments are targeted towards supporting the most vulnerable segments of the population, providing them with essential financial assistance. By addressing immediate financial needs, social assistance programs contribute to reducing the depth and severity of poverty, thereby enhancing the overall well-being of individuals and families.

Another important initiative is the Social Risk Mitigation Project (SRMP), which aims to mitigate the impact of economic crises on the poor and help them cope with the associated challenges. By providing support during times of economic uncertainty, this project contributes to building resilience within vulnerable communities and reducing the long-term effects of poverty. Looking ahead, Turkey has set ambitious goals to combat poverty. By 2030, the country aims to reduce the proportion of people living in poverty by at least half, using national definitions.

They also aim to implement comprehensive social protection systems and measures, ensuring substantial coverage for the poor and vulnerable populations. By outlining these goals, Turkey demonstrates its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all its residents. These poverty alleviation measures underscore Turkey's dedication to improving the lives of its citizens and addressing the complex challenges posed by poverty. By providing universal healthcare, focusing on disaster resilience, and implementing social assistance programs, Turkey is striving to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all its residents, ultimately contributing to sustainable development and prosperity for the nation.

See also

Refugees of the Syrian civil war in Turkey

References

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