Number of Pensioners in Turkey Outnumbers the Employed: Demographic Transformation in Three Regions
The number of pensioners in Turkey has surpassed the working population - The number of pensioners in Turkey continues to increase steadily, leading to significant changes in the country's demographic and economic structure. According to the latest statistics, the total number of people receiving pensions in Turkey has reached 17 million, reflecting a worrying trend compared to the working population.
Specifically, in three provinces – Zonguldak, Sinop, and Balıkesir – the number of pensioners has exceeded the active workforce. This situation indicates increasing tension in the labor market and social security system in these regions. Demographic change in the mentioned provinces is already an anticipated reality.
While Zonguldak is famous for its coal industry, in recent years it has faced problems such as young people leaving the city and an increase in the elderly population. Sinop and Balıkesir face similar challenges; here, limited job opportunities in agriculture and other sectors force young people to move to larger cities.
This trend raises important questions regarding the sustainability of the pension system, the increasing need for healthcare services, and potential obstacles to economic development. The decrease in the active workforce and the increase in the number of pensioners create serious problems for the country's socio-economic future.
Experts evaluate the long-term consequences of this demographic change, emphasizing the necessity of implementing reforms in the pension system, increasing youth employment levels, and eliminating inter-regional inequality. Otherwise, economic stagnation and social difficulties in such provinces could further intensify.