Turkey Faces Potential Population Decline to 25 Million by 2100

Turkey is facing a demographic issue due to declining fertility rates, with the index at 1.48, below the population renewal threshold (2.1). According to estimates by the United Nations and the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), the country's population could fall to 25-54 million by 2100 if current trends continue. The average age of first motherhood has increased to 29.3 years, and 57% of households do not have children. Minister of Family and Social Services, Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, emphasized that the decline in fertility has significant implications for the economy and national security. For this reason, the government plans to declare the period 2026-2035 as the “decade of family and population” with the aim of boosting births and promoting family policy. Ms. Göktaş did not provide specific details on the measures to be taken during the “decade of family and population”, but they are expected to include financial incentives for families, childcare support, and programs to promote family life. The government recognizes the need to address the demographic problem and is committed to taking steps to strengthen the country's population. The demographic issue is a challenge for many countries, including Turkey, as population aging and declining fertility can have negative consequences for economic growth, social security, and the labor market. Turkey is trying to find ways to address these challenges and ensure a sustainable future for its population.