Ensuring fair and equitable treatment in the workplace is essential for maintaining employees’ rights. Turkey, straddling both Europe and Asia, has made notable advancements in protecting workers’ rights. This article provides an in-depth overview of employees’ rights in Turkey, covering employment contracts, working hours, annual leave, wages, termination, and social security.
Employment Contracts
In Turkey, employment contracts can be either written or verbal, though having a written contract is highly recommended to prevent disputes. A comprehensive contract should include vital details such as job title, working hours, salary, and benefits. Probationary periods, typically lasting up to two months for indefinite-term contracts, are also common.
Working Hours
The standard workweek in Turkey is 45 hours, with a maximum of 9 hours per day. However, employees in specific sectors like health, transportation, and tourism may have different regulations due to the nature of their work. Overtime is capped at 270 hours per year, and employees must be compensated for overtime hours.
Annual Leave
Paid annual leave in Turkey is determined by the length of service. Employees with less than five years of service are entitled to a minimum of 14 days of leave. This increases to 20 days for those with five to fifteen years of service, and 26 days for those with over fifteen years of service. Employers must schedule annual leave based on the employee’s preference while considering operational needs.
Wages
The minimum wage in Turkey is set by the government and varies by region and age group, with annual revisions to ensure fair compensation. As of September 2021, the gross monthly minimum wage was 3,577 Turkish liras. Employers are required to pay wages on time and in full, with deductions allowed only for specific reasons such as taxes and social security contributions.
Termination
Employment termination can occur through resignation, retirement, or employer termination. Both parties have the right to terminate the contract, subject to certain legal requirements. Notice periods vary based on length of service, typically ranging from two to eight weeks. Employees may be eligible for severance pay if terminated without just cause.
Social Security
Turkey boasts a comprehensive social security system covering healthcare, retirement, and unemployment. Both employees and employers contribute to the social security fund through monthly wage deductions. The Social Security Institution (SGK) manages these contributions, providing benefits and ensuring social protection and healthcare coverage.
Occupational Health and Safety
A safe and healthy work environment is a key aspect of employees’ rights. Turkey’s Occupational Health and Safety Law mandates that employers provide a safe workplace, conduct risk assessments, and implement preventive measures. Employees have the right to refuse work if they believe it poses an imminent danger to their health and safety.
Conclusion
Turkey has made significant progress in safeguarding employees’ rights, offering a robust framework for fair treatment, decent working conditions, and social security benefits. It is essential for employees to be aware of their rights and for employers to meet their obligations. By understanding and upholding these rights, Turkey can maintain a harmonious and productive work environment that benefits both employees and employers.