President Erdoğan Defends Strike Policies Amid Labor Protests

On May 1st Labor and Solidarity Day, while hundreds of thousands of workers across Türkiye took to the streets demanding better wages, job security, union rights, and an end to precarious employment, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan hosted a formal gathering with union leaders and business representatives at the presidential complex in Beştepe, Ankara.

Speaking at the event, Erdoğan claimed that the government has utilized all its resources to raise the welfare of both workers and employers, stating:

“I believe that our workers receive the recognition they deserve and that their labor is being fairly compensated.”

Erdoğan: “We Have Rationalized the Right to Strike”

Addressing labor rights, Erdoğan said,

“We have placed the right to strike on a rational foundation.”

However, critics note that under Erdoğan’s leadership, strike bans have been issued 21 times since the AKP came to power. These bans were justified on grounds such as national security, public health, economic stability, or disruptions to urban transportation—often sparking backlash from labor unions and opposition groups.

Unions and Labor Policy Under Scrutiny

Although unionization rates have declined during the AKP’s tenure, Erdoğan asserted that labor rights have improved, citing:

• The return and expansion of collective bargaining bonuses,

• Lifting the public-sector headscarf ban,

• The introduction of Friday prayer and Hajj leave for public employees,

• A 30% minimum wage increase, along with the removal of income tax on it,

• Ongoing minimum wage subsidies for employers.

He also mentioned that occupational health and safety legislation has brought significant improvements to working conditions.

Despite these claims, many labor groups argue that such measures are insufficient in addressing deep-rooted problems like low union density, flexible work contracts, and restrictions on collective action.