What's Happening?
The Turkish government has announced a new framework aimed at addressing the country's high idle workforce, particularly focusing on young people who are neither in education nor employment. The 2026-2028 Medium-Term Program outlines initiatives to instill a work culture from an early age and prepare individuals for employment. The plan includes job counseling and active labor market programs, offering tailored guidance and training to increase participation levels. Additionally, the government plans to strengthen the link between social assistance and employment schemes, encouraging welfare recipients to join skill-building programs. Retraining opportunities will be provided for those unable to find jobs matching their qualifications, and parental leave regulations will be revised to promote balanced caregiving responsibilities. Although specific programs have not yet been launched, this framework is expected to guide future initiatives.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it addresses the issue of 'broad unemployment,' which includes individuals willing to work but not actively seeking jobs, seasonal employees, and part-time workers seeking full-time positions. The official unemployment rate in Turkey was 8% in July, but the broader measure of unemployment remained high, affecting over 10 million people. Among young people aged 18-24, 31.3% are neither in education nor employment, compared to an OECD average of 14.1%. This disengagement from the labor market poses a challenge to Turkey's economic growth and social stability. By focusing on youth employment, the government aims to reduce this disengagement and improve the country's workforce participation, potentially boosting economic productivity and reducing social welfare dependency.
What's Next?
The Turkish government is expected to develop specific programs based on the framework outlined in the Medium-Term Program. These initiatives will likely include detailed plans for job counseling, skill training, and retraining opportunities. The revision of parental leave regulations may also be implemented to encourage a balanced sharing of caregiving responsibilities. As these programs are rolled out, the government will monitor their effectiveness in reducing the idle workforce and increasing youth participation in the labor market. Stakeholders such as educational institutions, employers, and social service providers may play a role in supporting these efforts.
Beyond the Headlines
The focus on youth employment in Turkey highlights broader socio-economic challenges, including the need for educational reform and the integration of young people into the labor market. This initiative may also influence cultural attitudes towards work and education, encouraging a shift towards valuing skill development and lifelong learning. Additionally, the emphasis on balanced caregiving responsibilities could contribute to gender equality in the workplace, promoting a more inclusive labor market.
