Occupational health and safety (OHS) is a vital dimension of labor policy, yet its presence in political discourse, particularly in party manifestos, remains underexplored. In democratic systems, election manifestos reflect the political will and priorities of parties, including their commitment to workers’ welfare and workplace safety.
Objective
This study aims to investigate how political parties in Turkey addressed OHS in their 2023 general election manifestos. It seeks to evaluate the specificity, relevance, and feasibility of OHS-related promises and their alignment with international labor standards.
Methods
A qualitative content analysis was conducted on the official 2023 general election manifestos of major Turkish political parties. The analysis focused on the presence, depth, and practical orientation of OHS-related discourse, examining textual data through thematic coding aligned with international policy frameworks.
Results
The findings reveal a spectrum of approaches to OHS, ranging from general symbolic statements to concrete policy proposals. Some parties emphasized regulatory reforms, institutional capacity building, and expert-driven policy, while others provided limited or ambiguous references to worker safety. Discrepancies in terminology, focus areas, and implementation strategies were notable.
Conclusions
The study concludes that OHS remains inconsistently addressed across political platforms. Ensuring institutional stability, appointing qualified experts, and adopting evidence-based, internationally compatible strategies are essential for advancing OHS policy in Turkey. A more standardized and rights-based discourse is required for effective policy continuity and worker protection.
Workplaces harbor various hazards of biological, chemical, physical, ergonomic, and psychosocial origins that may lead to occupational accidents and diseases.1 When these hazards transform into risks due to various factors, they result in occupational accidents and diseases. The occurrence of occupational accidents and diseases adversely affects not only individuals within the workplace but also extends to the surrounding environment, harming both living and non-living entities up to the furthest reach of their impact. Occupational health and safety (OHS) encompasses all activities aimed at preventing or mitigating hazards, secondary hazards, and risks that have the potential to harm the existence and continuity of the workplace ecosystem. The primary objective of OHS activities is to establish a safe and healthy working environment, which is a fundamental principle and right for workers. A safe and healthy working environment promotes sustainable and inclusive economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.2
According to a study conducted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), more than 395 million workers worldwide experienced non-fatal occupational accidents in 2019. Approximately 2.93 million workers lost their lives due to work-related factors. Of these work-related deaths, around 2.6 million were attributed to occupational diseases, while 330,000 resulted from occupational accidents. In Türkiye, according to the 2023 statistics published by the Social Security Institution (SGK), 681,655 individuals were involved in occupational accidents, and 946 workers were diagnosed with occupational diseases. Additionally, 1972 workers lost their lives due to occupational accidents. However, no fatalities were reported due to occupational diseases.3
In Türkiye, the first and only specific law on OHS, the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331, was adopted by the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) on June 20, 2012, and entered into force after being published in the Official Gazette No. 28339 on June 30, 2012.4 Following the enactment of this law, numerous regulations and directives based on this legislation were issued. Although significant efforts have been made in the field of OHS since 2012, occupational accidents and diseases remain a critical issue that needs to be addressed in Türkiye. According to statistics published by the Social Security Institution (SGK), between 2013 and 2023, 4,321,519 workers were involved in occupational accidents, and 8802 workers were diagnosed with occupational diseases. During this period, 16,096 workers lost their lives due to occupational accidents, and 48 workers died as a result of occupational diseases. This situation highlights the necessity of ensuring the effective implementation of OHS legislation, fostering the adoption of OHS services by all parties in the workplace, and promoting compliance with related regulations and instructions. It underscores the need for continued efforts to address these challenges comprehensively.
The TBMM is responsible for enacting the constitution and laws that form the basis of legislation aimed at fulfilling the fundamental objectives and duties of the state as outlined in the Constitution of the Republic of Türkiye. These duties include safeguarding the independence and integrity of the Turkish nation, the indivisibility of the country, the Republic, and democracy; ensuring the welfare, peace, and happiness of individuals and society; removing political, economic, and social obstacles that restrict fundamental rights and freedoms in a manner incompatible with the principles of the social rule of law and justice; and striving to create the necessary conditions for the material and spiritual development of individuals. The Constitution of the Republic of Türkiye, adopted by the TBMM on October 18, 1982, under Law No. 2709, was published in the Official Gazette No. 17863 on November 9, 1982, and entered into force. According to the Constitution, the legislative authority is vested in the TBMM. The Assembly consists of six hundred (600) members of parliament (deputies), who are elected every five years through general elections. Members of parliament may run as candidates from a political party or as independent candidates. With the exception of independent deputies, members of parliament belong to political parties, which are indispensable elements of democratic political life. Political parties represented in the Assembly participate in legislative activities through their deputies.5
Political parties and their leaders communicate their promises to the electorate, particularly to potential voters who follow the party, as well as to the general voting population across the country, through written and visual media. Manifestos, which document these promises in writing, serve as reliable and accessible texts for voters to learn about the commitments and monitor their implementation.6
Literature
In the field of OHS, extensive studies are conducted by international organizations, public institutions, non-governmental organizations, and universities at both national and international levels to ensure the health, safety, security, and well-being of workers in workplaces. These efforts have contributed to the development of a broad and comprehensive body of literature.
Founded in Geneva in 1919, the ILO is the only international organization that brings together governments, worker representatives, and employers. Its primary objective is to globally improve and enhance living and working conditions. To achieve this goal, the ILO conducts studies on employment, decent work, child labor, gender equality, migration, and refugees, aligning with the international agenda, and shares these findings with its member states. Türkiye, which has held observer status since 1927, became a full member of the ILO in 1932 and has since participated in conferences organized by the ILO. As part of the Western European Group within the ILO's Europe and Central Asia geographical group (Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2025), Türkiye has ratified 59 ILO conventions, 55 of which are currently in force.7
The development of OHS policies in the European Union has been shaped by various legal regulations aimed at improving working conditions and protecting workers. During the European Economic Community period in 1957, the approach of using common market mechanisms was adopted to improve “working and living conditions,” with the goal of providing a minimum level of protection for workers across all member states under the framework of the free movement of labor. However, this policy was revised by the European Commission in 1972, leading to the creation of the Social Action Plan, which emphasized the participation of labor market actors and management. Starting in the 1970s, legal regulations aimed at improving employment, enhancing working and living conditions, and establishing economic and social policies covering workers in workplaces began to be implemented. In this context, the Framework Directive on Occupational Health and Safety (89/391/EEC), the European Union's primary regulation in this field, was enacted. This directive established employers’ obligations to protect workers’ health and safety, introducing fundamental principles such as risk assessment, preventive measures, and worker information. In addition to the Framework Directive, secondary regulations were developed to enhance workplace safety. These include directives related to workplaces, equipment, signage, and personal protective equipment, such as 2009/104/EC, 99/92/EC, 92/58/EEC, 89/656/EEC, and 89/654/EEC. Furthermore, directives regulating workers’ exposure to physical substances, legal frameworks for protection against chemical and biological agents, and measures addressing ergonomic and psychosocial risks were introduced. Additionally, sector-specific regulations for industries such as construction, healthcare, agriculture, and transportation were implemented to minimize the risks of occupational accidents and diseases. The European Union has adopted a continuous improvement approach in OHS, based on preventive principles, and has updated its legislation accordingly to promote a common safety culture across member states. The Framework Directive and related regulations have contributed to raising OHS standards across Europe by aiming to increase workers’ awareness of health and safety issues in the workplace, enhancing employers’ responsibilities, and preventing occupational accidents.8
The ideological stance of political parties plays a crucial role in shaping occupational safety and health (OSH) policies across European countries. Centre-right parties typically promote business-oriented initiatives, frequently advocating for the deregulation or simplification of OSH regulations, particularly for micro and small enterprises (MSEs). In contrast, centre-left and green parties generally support more inclusive, union-friendly, and worker-centred strategies in workplace safety governance. This ideological divide has led to substantial disparities in both the scope and effectiveness of OSH measures, especially within small- scale enterprises. In Western Europe, tripartite governance models- grounded in cooperation among trade unions, employer organizations, and public institutions- have proven effective in enhancing OSH standards. Countries such as Germany, Sweden, and Norway exemplify this model, where political parties- especially those aligned with social democratic and labor-oriented agendas- have historically embedded workplace safety within their election manifestos and national policy frameworks. These systems consistently emphasize preventative approaches to OSH governance, in contrast to the more reactive, regulatory, or employer-driven models commonly found in Southern and Eastern Europe. In many Eastern European nations, political ideologies aligned with neoliberal reform trajectories have contributed to the erosion of regulatory structures and the weakening of social dialogue mechanisms. These dynamics continue to sustain disparities in OSH implementation both across individual member states and throughout the European Union, thereby exacerbating the disconnect between workplace- level safety and broader societal risk governance.9–21
According to the 2014 study titled OHS in the European Union, published by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, the initial relations between Türkiye and the EU in the field of OHS began within the framework of Türkiye's EU accession process, focusing on the alignment of OHS-related legislation. The Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331, which is a significant part of Türkiye's alignment process with the EU in the field of OHS, came into force in 2012. However, Türkiye has been implementing various legal regulations related to OHS in line with the EU acquis since 2005. Notably, the regulations published in the field of OHS since 2012 are directly based on and aligned with European Union directives.
The adoption and enactment of international conventions published by the ILO and the European Union are subject to a specific process. In Türkiye, international treaties are signed by the President or authorized representatives, and in certain cases, they must be approved by the TBMM to enter into force. According to Article 90 of the Constitution of the Republic of Türkiye, international treaties related to fundamental rights and freedoms must be approved by the TBMM through a law to gain validity in domestic law. Once the approval process is completed, the treaties are published in the Official Gazette and enter into force. International treaties that are duly put into effect have the force of law and become binding for Türkiye.5
Legislation containing direct and indirect provisions related to OHS is prepared and published by the authorized institutions of the state. Members of parliament, whether independent or affiliated with a political party, draft and approve laws under the framework of the TBMM. According to the Constitution of the Republic of Türkiye, members of parliament are elected every five years through general elections with public participation. Prior to the elections, political parties announce their national and international policies, as well as their promises to address problems and enhance national welfare, in written form through election manifestos, in the event they come to power.6
Election manifestos have been utilized as a basis for scientific studies across various disciplines by researchers. For instance, Apak et al. (2023) conducted a study titled A Comparative Perspective on Turkish Politics Through the 2023 Election Manifestos of Political Parties on the Centennial of the Republic. Kumbuzoğlu et al. (2022) explored Parties, Elections, and Manifestos in the Republican Era (1923–1980). Çatı and Cengiz (2019) analyzed The Examination of Political Parties’ Election Manifestos Within the Framework of Political Marketing. Aytaç (2017) investigated Policy Priorities in the Election Manifestos of Political Parties in Türkiye. Akçay (2018) focused on The Relations with the European Union in the Election Manifestos of Political Parties During the June 24 Elections. Arklan and Tanacı (2020) provided A Perspective on Election Campaigns Through Manifestos: A Comparative Analysis of the March 31, 2019 Local Elections. Evren (2023) examined Integrated Disaster Management Awareness in the Charters and Programs of Turkish Political Parties. Tutan (2024) studied The Political Discourse of Disasters: Mutual Framing and Perceptions of the Government and Opposition in Türkiye, 1999–2023. Kan and Kan (2022) analyzed Women's Employment in the Election Manifestos of Political Parties: The Case of the June 24, 2018 General Elections. Kan (2023) conducted A Comparative Textual Analysis of Political Parties’ Election Manifestos: The Case of the November 1, 2015 and June 24, 2018 General Elections. These scientific studies extensively used election manifestos and political discourses as primary sources.22–32
Political parties included OHS in their election manifestos published ahead of the 2023 general elections. In these manifestos, they shared their planned initiatives and goals regarding OHS with the public. These documents serve as a significant resource for understanding the political perspectives and objectives of parties concerning OHS. The extent to which these promises are fulfilled, their alignment with international standards, their sustainability, or whether they are short-term measures are important considerations.33,34
The 2023 general elections in Türkiye provide a valuable opportunity to evaluate the approaches and promises of political parties regarding OHS. This article analyzes how the political parties participating in the 2023 general elections addressed OHS in their election manifestos, the alignment of these promises with international standards, and the level of their implementation. Additionally, by assessing the effectiveness of legislative regulations and practices in the field of OHS, the article offers recommendations for achieving sustainable progress in this area.
Materials and methods
This study adopts a qualitative content analysis approach to examine how political parties in Türkiye addressed OHS in their 2023 general election manifestos. Content analysis is a well-established method in political science and social policy research that enables systematic examination of textual data to identify patterns, categories, and underlying themes.
The primary data source consists of the official election manifestos of political parties that participated in the 2023 general elections. These documents were accessed through the official websites of the parties, reports published by the Supreme Election Council (YSK), and publicly available media archives. In addition, joint policy texts issued by political alliances and selected legislative documents from the TBMM were included to expand the analytical scope.
All manifestos were read in multiple phases to ensure comprehensive familiarity with the texts. Using an inductive thematic coding strategy, OHS-related content was identified, coded, and grouped into emerging themes. The analysis focused on party approaches to worker protection, regulatory proposals, institutional mechanisms, and references to international labor standards. The framework also examined the specificity of promises, their intended target groups, and alignment with ILO conventions and EU directives.
Although the study is descriptive in nature, comparative evaluation was applied to contrast parties’ approaches in terms of policy clarity, technical feasibility, and socio-political context. The promises were not only categorized thematically but also assessed for their alignment with global best practices and applicability within Türkiye's current political, legal, and economic framework.
To ensure methodological rigor, the analysis followed the principles of qualitative content analysis as outlined by Krippendorff (2013) and Flick (2014). While a single-coder approach was used, selected excerpts were revisited to ensure coding consistency, and the results were reviewed by domain experts to enhance credibility.35
All documents were obtained from publicly accessible and verifiable sources. The analysis was conducted in accordance with academic ethical guidelines. Limitations of the study include the partial or missing availability of some party manifestos, the exclusion of post-election implementation tracking, and the primary reliance on formal political statements rather than practical policy outcomes.
Findings
The election calendar for the Presidential Election and the 28th Term Parliamentary General Election began on Monday, March 13, 2023, and concluded on Sunday, May 14, 2023, with the completion of voting procedures. Following the elections, the Supreme Election Council of the Republic of Türkiye (YSK) announced the final election results on Friday, May 19, 2023.36
Table 1 indicates that seven political parties surpassed the electoral threshold in the parliamentary elections. The table lists the names of these parties along with the number of representatives secured by each.
Political parties and the number of parliamentary seats won.35
Num.
Political Party
Number of Parliamentary Seats Won
1
Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi- AKP (Justice and Development Party)
268
2
Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi- CHP (Republican People's Party)
169
3
Yeşiller ve Sol Gelecek Partisi- YSP (Green Left Party)
61
4
Milliyetçi Hareket Partisi- MHP (Nationalist Movement Party)
50
5
İyi Parti- IP (Good Party)<
43
6
Yeniden Refah Partisi- YRP (New Welfare Party)
5
7
Türkiye İşçi Partisi- TİP (Workers’ Party of Turkey)
4
8
Bağımsızlar (Independents)
0
Total Number of Members of Parliament in Turkey
600
On Sunday, May 14, 2023, the 28th Term Parliamentary General Election was held, with parties represented in the TBMM participating either within alliances or independently. In some regions, political parties participated under five alliances: “Ata İttifakı”, “Cumhur İttifakı”, “Emek ve Özgürlük İttifakı”, “Millet İttifakı” and “Sosyalist Güç Birliği İttifakı” (35).
Table 2 presents the names of the political parties participating in the 28th Parliamentary General Elections and the alliances in which these parties were grouped. As shown in the table, a total of 17 political parties contested the elections under five alliances.
Alliances and political parties within the alliances.35
Num.
Alliance Name
Political Parties in the Alliance
1
Ata İttifakı (Ata Alliance)
Adalet Partisi (Justice Party)
Zafer Partisi (Victory Party)
2
Cumhur İttifakı (People's Alliance)
Büyük Birlik Partisi (Great Unity Party)
Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi (Justice and Development Party)
Yeniden Refah Partisi (New Welfare Party)
Milliyetçi Hareket Partisi (Nationalist Movement Party)
3
Emek ve Özgürlük İttifakı (Labor and Freedom Alliance)
Yeşil ve Sol Gelecek Partisi (Green Left Party)
Türkiye İşçi Partisi (Workers’ Party of Turkey)
4
Millet İttifakı (Nation Alliance)
Gelecek Partisi (Future Party)
Demokrat Parti (Democratic Party)
İyi Parti (Good Party)
Saadet Partisi (Felicity Party)
Demokrasi ve Atılım Partisi (Democracy and Progress Party)
Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi (Republican People's Party)
5
Sosyalist Güç Birliği İttifakı (Socialist Power Union Alliance)
Türkiye Komünist Partisi (Communist Party of Turkey)
Türkiye Komünist Hareketi (Communist Movement of Turkey)
Sol Parti (Left Party)
/table>
The 28th Term TBMM Album, published by the Presidency of the Press, Publication, and Public Relations of the TBMM in December 2023, provides detailed information on the political parties represented within the TBMM and the members of parliament affiliated with these political parties.37
Table 3 presents the total number of members of parliament (MPs) for each political party, along with their distribution by gender (female and male).
Political parties represented in the Turkish Grand National Assembly and their members.36
Num.
Political Parties
Woman
Man
Total
1
J
e and Development Party (AK Party)/ Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi
50
214
264
2
T
publican People's Party/ Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi
24
105
129
3
P
s’ Equality and Democracy Party – Green Left Party / Halkların Eşitlik ve Demokrasi Partisi- Yeşil Sol Parti
27
30
57
4
T
tionalist Movement Party/ Milliyetçi Hareket Partisi
4
4
>
49
5
I
rty/ İyi Parti
4
34
38
6
Saadet Party/ Saadet Partisi
2
18
20
7
Democracy and Progress Party/ Demokrasi ve Atılım Partisi
4
11
15
8
New Welfare Party/ Yeniden Refah Partisi
0
5
5
9
Workers’ Party of Türkiye/ Türkiye İşçi Partisi
1
3
4
10
Free Cause Party/ Hür Dava Partisi
0
4
4
11
Democrat Party/ Demokrat Parti
0
3
3
12
Democratic Regions Party/ Demokratik Bölgeler Partisi
1
1
2
13
Labour Party/ Emek Partisi
1
1
2
14
Democratic Left Party/ Demokratik Sol Parti
0
1
1
15
Independent/ Bağımsız
1
5
6
16
Deceased/ Vefat
0
1
1
Total
119
481
600
Election manifestos and declarations of the 28th term parliamentary general elections
Justice and Development Party (Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi)
Promises of the Justice and Development Party Regarding Occupational Health and Safety in the May 14, 2023, General Elections
In its election manifesto for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023, the Justice and Development Party (AKP) outlined several commitments that would have both direct and indirect impacts on OHS. These commitments include:
Establishing a participatory system within the public personnel structure that enables employees at all levels, from civil servants to managers, to engage in processes concerning their institutions’ work environment and working conditions,
Increasing secure flexibility in the labor market,
Continuing the determined implementation of the OHS reform,
Maintaining a resolute fight against informal employment, prioritizing guidance and voluntary compliance while enhancing risk-focused inspection capacity.33
Republican People's Party, Good Party, Future Party, Felicity Party, Democracy and Progress Party, Democratic Party (nation alliance)
Promises of the Nation Alliance Regarding Occupational Health and Safety in the Joint Policy Consensus Document (January 30, 2023)
In the Joint Policy Consensus Document published by the Nation Alliance on January 30, 2023, several direct and indirect commitments were made regarding the health, safety, security, and welfare of workers in the labor market. These commitments include:
Establishing “Responsible Mining Principles” that prioritize OHS as well as environmental sensitivity,
Addressing the issues related to social security and retirement rights of independent artists,
Adopting the ILO Convention No. 175 on part-time work,
Ratifying ILO Convention No. 189 on “Decent Work for Domestic Workers,”
Aligning OHS standards with ILO norms,
Developing the necessary infrastructure through İŞKUR to provide students with safe part-time job opportunities,
Ensuring that women working in informal and unregistered domestic labor are covered under the Labor Law,
Re-establishing the abolished Biosafety Board,
Preparing and rigorously implementing emergency response plans and risk maps at both national and enterprise levels,
Improving and reassessing all mines in Turkey in terms of occupational safety in accordance with ILO standards,
Abolishing subcontracting systems in sectors with high accident risks.34
Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party- Green Left Party (Halkların Eşitlik ve Demokrasi Party- Yeşil Sol Parti)
The People's Equality and Democracy Party participated in the May 14, 2023, parliamentary general elections through the Green Left Party (Peoples’ Democratic Party, 2023). The election manifesto prepared and published by the Green Left Party for the May 14, 2023, parliamentary general elections includes promises that will have direct and indirect impacts on OHS:
The termination of flexible and insecure employment, and the enactment of necessary legal regulations to establish workplace management structures in which workers have a say.
The creation of secure and safe working conditions for seasonal agricultural worker women, ensuring local governments take responsibility for meeting their needs.
The construction of a Democratic Republic that opposes the ruling power's capital-prioritizing capitalist economic policies, labor exploitation, war expenditures, security-focused policies, militarization, and women's poverty. Labor exploitation and workplace fatalities will be eliminated through organized labor.
The implementation of necessary structural reforms and international standards in OHS without exceptions, and the elimination of workplace fatalities.
The establishment of a Labor-Weighted Occupational Health and Safety Council.
The recognition of OHS as a constitutional right, and the revision of all relevant legislation, including the “Occupational Health and Safety Law” and the “Penal Code,” to combat impunity policies.
The abolition of subcontracting systems and the enforcement of regulations that hold main companies accountable for all workplace accidents.
The prevention of uninsured and union-free employment, and the elimination of the informal economy.
The implementation of administrative and social measures to prevent the exclusion, discrimination, and violence faced by seasonal agricultural workers, ensuring their access to fundamental citizenship rights in their workplaces.
The resolution of issues faced by agricultural workers concerning wages, working hours, workplace safety, health, social security, transportation, accommodation, nutrition, clean water, sanitation, and children's education.
The suspension of production in mines until OHS measures are fully implemented and the ecological destruction they cause is eliminated.
The establishment of monitoring mechanisms, including civil inspections, in sectors where child labor is prevalent, such as agriculture, industry, and services, ensuring the removal of children from the workforce.
The adoption of measures against psychological pressure, threats, harassment, mobbing, forced labor, and wage inequality.
The enactment of legal regulations that require the immediate reinstatement of workers who win reinstatement lawsuits and the abolition of union thresholds.
The elimination of the patriarchal, gender-based division of labor, discrimination, and inequalities perpetuated by the male-dominated capitalist system that disregards women's labor and employment.
The full implementation of OHS measures for women and young farmers.38–40
Nationalist Movement Party (Milliyetçi Hareket Partisi)
In the election manifesto prepared and published by the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023, there are proposals that have both direct and indirect effects on OHS. The manifesto states that the core of the MHP's labor policy is based on offering decent job opportunities to all citizens, improving the quality of employees, ensuring the efficient use of the workforce, and creating a labor market where OHS conditions are enhanced. Within this framework, the following proposals have been included:
Labor policies should be regulated within a framework that balances the rights of workers and employers while also considering the protection of employment.
The definitions of civil servants, workers, and other public officials should be redefined to eliminate confusion regarding status and titles among employees. Accordingly, a salary system based on merit and performance should be established to eliminate wage imbalances among public employees.
Legislative, cost-related, supervision, bureaucratic, and other barriers leading to uninsured labor and informal employment should be removed to encourage formal employment.
All necessary technical, legal, and administrative measures should be taken, and inspections should be enhanced to ensure OHS meets modern standards.
Uninsured labor should be prevented, and the number of active insured employees should be increased. This will ensure both the sustainability of the system and the prevention of victimization of employees.41
New Welfare Party (Yeniden Refah Partisi)
In the election manifesto prepared and published by the New Welfare Party (Yeniden Refah Partisi) for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023, the following promise was made regarding OHS:
The OSH system will be made functional. Instead of a formalistic and cost-focused approach on paper, the system will be established as an essential right of employees, ensuring their safety in every aspect.42
Workers’ Party of Turkey (Türkiye İşçi Partisi)
In the election manifesto prepared and published by the Workers’ Party of Turkey (Türkiye İşçi Partisi) for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023, the following promises related to OHS were included:
Continuous inspection of companies operating in the culture and arts sector will be ensured. Businesses violating the Labor Law, particularly film production companies that fail to uphold labor rights and provide workplace safety, will face severe financial penalties, license revocations, and other deterrent sanctions.
A nationwide system will be established to record workplace accidents resulting in death or injury, as well as occupational diseases.
The use of materials and technologies that disregard worker and public health and environmental concerns will be eliminated.
With an increased number of labor inspectors and the introduction of worker representatives, workplaces will be strictly monitored, and deterrent sanctions will be implemented.
Workplace safety experts and occupational physicians, whose salaries are funded by the state, will be assigned to workplaces to conduct inspections.
Occupational Safety Experts and Occupational Physicians Commissions, established within the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB) and the Turkish Medical Association (TTB), will be empowered to oversee the state's regulatory authority.43
Free Cause Party (Hür Dava Partisi)
In the “2023 Election Vision Document” prepared and published by the Free Cause Party (Hür Dava Partisi) for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023, no direct or indirect promises or proposals related to OHS were included.
Democratic Regions Party (Demokratik Bölgeler Partisi)
No election manifesto was prepared or published by the Democratic Regions Party (Demokratik Bölgeler Partisi) for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023.
Labor Party (Emek Partisi)
In the election manifesto prepared and published by the Labor Party (Emek Partisi) for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023, the following direct and indirect promises regarding OHS were included:
Working hours should not exceed 7 h per day and 5 days (35 h) per week, while for heavy and dangerous jobs, a 5-h workday should be implemented. Workers should be entitled to two days off per week without wage cuts and receive 30 uninterrupted vacation days annually. All barriers to female employment should be removed, and equal pay for equal work must be ensured. The employment of children aged 18 and under as paid laborers should be banned.
Flexible employment arrangements such as remote work, short-term work, subcontracting, temporary work, and contractual employment should be abolished. Private employment agencies should be closed, and secure and permanent employment should be ensured in all sectors. Measures related to worker health and occupational safety in factories, workplaces, and work areas should be determined and monitored by committees where the majority of members are representatives elected by workers.44
Democratic Left Party (Demokratik Sol Parti)
No election manifesto was prepared or published by the Democratic Left Party (Demokratik Sol Parti) for the parliamentary general elections held on May 14, 2023.
Actions implemented by the ruling party
Between 2002 and 2023, the Justice and Development Party (Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi), which remained in power uninterruptedly, undertook various initiatives aimed at improving the health, safety, security, and well-being of employees in their workplaces and shared environments within the scope of OHS. These efforts were both directly and indirectly related to OHS.
The National Program for Combating Child Labor was enacted.
Child Labor Units were established in the Provincial Directorates of Labor and Employment Agency across all 81 provinces.
A significant reform in this field was achieved through the enactment of the independent Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331 and its subsequent regulations.
Incentive programs were introduced to enhance the effectiveness of OHS services in hazardous and highly hazardous workplaces.
Training services were provided to employers to ensure the implementation of OHS measures in less hazardous workplaces.
The number of common health and safety units, occupational safety experts, and workplace physicians was significantly increased. As of the end of 2022, the number of common health and safety units had reached 2,470, occupational safety experts 73,956, and workplace physicians 29,892.
In highly hazardous workplaces employing more than ten workers, where OHS services were provided and no fatal or permanently disabling occupational accidents occurred for three consecutive years, the unemployment insurance premium rate was reduced by 50%.
Efforts were undertaken to reduce the rate of occupational accidents (compared to 2002, the fatal occupational accident rate per 100,000 workers decreased by 50% in 2021).
Initiatives were carried out to improve the working conditions of mine workers.
In response to the mining disasters in Soma and Ermenek, the debts of the deceased miners to the Social Security Institution (SGK) were canceled, their beneficiaries were granted survivor pensions regardless of the deceased's contribution period, unconditional pensions were provided to their parents, and one relative of each deceased miner was offered employment in the public sector. This regulation was extended to all mining operations.
The implementation of personnel tracking systems, refuge chambers, and oxygen-equipped individual rescuers was made mandatory in underground mines.
A vocational qualification system with international recognition was established, and certification and examination processes were authorized through internationally accredited institutions.
The requirement for Vocational Qualification Certificates was introduced for occupations classified as hazardous.
National occupational standards were defined for 898 professions.
The ban on wearing headscarves in public institutions was lifted.
Regulations were introduced for religious practices significant to Muslims, such as Friday prayers and the Hajj pilgrimage. Public employees were granted leave if Friday prayers coincided with working hours, and they were given unpaid leave for the Hajj pilgrimage.
Efforts to combat unregistered employment continued uninterruptedly to secure employees’ futures.
Analytical studies were conducted to enhance the effectiveness of inspections, enabling targeted monitoring of sectors and workplaces identified as high-risk, thereby reducing time and cost losses in inspections.
The Social Security Reform, built upon the principle of “Let man live so that the state may live,” eliminated the fragmented institutional structure of the social security system, ensuring the provision of social security services under a single umbrella through the Social Security Institution. The coverage of the social security system was expanded to provide broader access to social security.
Individuals employed in household services by one or more real persons and working for less than ten days per month were granted the opportunity to be insured through the payment of an occupational accident and disease insurance premium amounting to 2% of the minimum daily earnings base.
Provisions were introduced to enable the insurance of workers employed on a part-time basis in commercial taxis, minibusses, and similar urban public transportation vehicles, as well as jockeys and trainers.
The “Easy Employer Application” was introduced for employers hiring insured workers in household services, and this application was extended to include apartment building caretakers.
Emergency situations, traffic accidents, occupational accidents, maternity cases, and substance addiction cases were included among the conditions for which healthcare services were provided unconditionally.
Conclusion
The Presidential Election and the 28th Term Parliamentary General Elections held in 2023 marked a significant turning point in Turkey's political history. This study has thoroughly examined the election manifestos presented during the electoral process and the commitments made by political parties in the field of OHS. The findings reveal both similarities and notable differences in the parties’ approaches to OHS.
The Justice and Development Party (AKP) has emphasized commitments such as establishing a participatory system in the labor market, combating informal employment, and continuing OHS reforms. The OHS reforms and incentive programs implemented by the AKP since 2002 demonstrate significant progress in this area. However, it is also evident that more effective policies need to be developed for the prevention of occupational accidents and the safety of workers.
The Nation Alliance has put forward comprehensive commitments, including the adoption of ILO standards, the abolition of the subcontracting system, and the assurance of worker health. In particular, the pledges to ratify ILO conventions and expand labor rights highlight the alliance's priorities in OHS. However, a clearer roadmap is needed to determine the feasiblity of these commitments and how their tangible outcomes will be measured.
The Green Left Party has drawn attention with radical promises, such as ending precarious and insecure employment, preventing losses due to occupational accidents and diseases, and abolishing the subcontracting system. The party envisions a fundamental transformation in OHS, particularly through proposals that increase workers’ rights and recognize worker health as a constitutional right. However, uncertainties remain regarding how such fundamental changes can be implemented within the existing economic and political framework.
The Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) and the New Welfare Party have adopted more traditional approaches to OHS. While MHP has focused on balancing workers’ and employers’ rights and preventing informal employment, the New Welfare Party has made commitments to make the OHS system functional and ensure worker safety.
Left-wing parties such as the Workers’ Party of Turkey (TİP) and the Labor Party have proposed more radical measures, including the expansion of labor rights, the abolition of subcontracting, and the assurance of worker health. These parties advocate for worker representatives to play a more active role in supervisory mechanisms and for worker health to be recognized as a constitutional right. From the viewpoint of individual employees, such assurances can directly affect their experiences of workplace safety, legal protection and perceived institutional support. Nonetheless, without adequate communication, enforcement mechanisms and awareness initiatives, workers- particularly in high-risk industries such as construction, agriculture, and mining- may remain uninformed or disempowered in asserting these rights.
A general assessment of political parties’ approaches reveals distinct focuses: sustaining OHS reforms and improving incentive mechanisms (Justice and Development Party), abolishing the subcontracting system and adopting international standards (Nation Alliance), implementing more radical regulations on worker health (Green Left Party and Workers’ Party of Turkey) and balancing employer and worker rights (Nationalist Movement Party and New Welfare Party).
Although the election manifestos presented in the 2023 elections contained significant commitments in the field of OHS, uncertainties persist regarding their feasibility and tangible outcomes. This apprehension is substantiated by previous electoral cycles, during which analogous pledges were made without much advancement in implementation. Although the 6331 Occupational Health and Safety Law represented a legislative milestone, inconsistent enforcement and institutional instability impeded its long- term efficacy. Consequently, political pledges must be assessed not solely based on their content but also considering historical implementation and institutional preparedness. More effective policies must be developed, particularly in the prevention of occupational accidents, ensuring worker safety, and combating informal employment. To fulfill these commitments, in- depth research and analyses are required on various factors, including cost, legislative regulations, short- and long-term feasibility, and stakeholder approaches to concrete and effective implementation. At the institutional level, the operationalization of these promises depends on the administrative capacity of relevant bodies such as İSGGM, İSGÜM and ÇASGEM. Without detailed implementation frameworks, political promises may place unrealistic expectations on OHS professionals and inspection staff. Moreover, unclear role definitions and overlapping bureaucratic responsibilities weaken the effectiveness of workplace-level interventions. Adopting international OHS standards and adapting them to local conditions will contribute to creating a fairer and safer working environment in Turkey.
This study has analyzed election manifestos in terms of their OHS commitments, revealing political parties’ approaches to the issue. In addition to detailed policy recommendations concerning feasibility, the manifestos contain populist promises that consider recent societal demands and significant national events, as well as abstract objectives. More research is needed to assess the feasibility of political parties’ promises and how their concrete outcomes will be measured. Comparable appeals have been articulated in the United States, where academics have condemned the absence of follow-up measures to evaluate the execution of OHS-related campaign commitments. Research on U.S. presidential and legislative elections indicates that although worker safety is periodically referenced, it is not prioritized unless associated with significant public health emergencies or union activism. This underscores the necessity for continuous policy monitoring systems in all democracies. Future studies should examine how these commitments are implemented in the post-election period and their effects on workers’ living conditions in greater detail. Such research will significantly contribute to enhancing the transparency and accountability of democratic processes.
This study provides a unique contribution to the academic literature by systematically analyzing the OHS commitments articulated in the election manifestos of political parties during Türkiye's 2023 general elections. Although extensive research exists on OHS legislation, working conditions, and state-level policy implementation, the intersection between OHS and political discourse- particularly in the context of campaign promises- has received limited attention in both national and international scholarship. This study is among the first in Türkiye to evaluate party manifestos as instruments of OHS policymaking and political signaling. By integrating political communication with labor protection frameworks, the study broadens the analytical boundaries of OHS research. This not only clarifies how political agendas shape occupational safety narratives but also offers a methodological framework for future comparative research in democratic societies.
For OHS to become a cultural norm in Turkey and to prevent or minimize damages caused by occupational accidents and diseases, all stakeholders (political parties, public institutions, civil society organizations, employers, workers, and OHS professionals) must analyze past experiences, assess present conditions, and make decisions based on future projections. These decisions must not only provide short-term solutions but also be sustainable, applicable in the long term, and aligned with national and international regulations and standards. Political parties, in particular, should avoid making unrealistic and impractical promises aimed solely at gaining public interest and votes. Instead, they should focus on policies and practices that support sustainable development in OHS. The disparity between parties at the macro level illustrates differing ideological views regarding the state's role in regulating the labor market. Certain factions endorse a rights- based strategy through the advocacy of constitutional reforms or the ratification of international treaties, whereas others prefer incentive-oriented and employer- centric strategies. Successful implementation necessitates political stability, effective budgetary planning and consistency in administrative leadership- elements that now exhibit fragility within the Turkish OHS governance framework.
Coordination among stakeholders is crucial for the effective implementation of OHS services, ensuring the participation of all parties in the process, and fostering a culture of safety. The lack of cooperation among stakeholders, frequent changes in legislation and practices, and the short tenure of decision-makers and administrators lead to a lack of trust and hinder the effective implementation of OHS regulations. In Turkey, the authority on OHS is the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, with key institutions including the Directorate General of Occupational Health and Safety (İSGGM), the Occupational Health and Safety Training and Research Center (ÇASGEM) and the Occupational Health and Safety Research and Development Institute (İSGÜM). However, over the past five years, there have been four different general directors appointed to the Directorate General of Occupational Health and Safety, and with each leadership change, deputy general directors, İSGÜM presidents, and relevant administrators have also been replaced. Moreover, the appointment of individuals without expertise in OHS has created significant challenges in policy development, implementation processes, and effective collaboration with stakeholders. This situation has caused disruptions in the continuity and effectiveness of OHS policies, highlighting the need for long-term strategies to ensure stability and the sustainability of policy in Justice and Development Party (2023).
Footnotes
Ethical approval
Ethical approval was not required for this study as it involved only aggregate, publicly available data from the Social Security Institution (SGK) of Türkiye. No individual-level or personally identifiable data were used.
Informed consent
Informed consent was not applicable, as the study did not involve human participants or individual-level data.
Author contribution/biography
Ahmet Çabuk, PhD; contributed to the study design, data analysis, and manuscript writing.
Funding
The author received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
Declaration of conflicting interests
The author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
Human subjects review statement
This study did not involve human participants and therefore did not require institutional review board approval.
ApakDDuygulu ElcimŞİngün KarkışÖ, et al.Cumhuriyet’in 100. Yılında Siyasi Partilerin 2023 Seçim Beyannameleri Üzerinden Türkiye Siyasetine Karşılaştırmalı Bir Bakış. Gaziantep Univ J Soc Sci2023 Oct 28; 22: 579–601.
FrickKKempaV. Actors or receptors? The role of workers and trade unions in regulating work and health. Worker representation and health and safety in small enterprises. 2011;25–44.
FrickK. Worker influence on voluntary OHS management systems – A review of its ends and means. Saf Sci2011 Aug; 49: 974–987.
12.
RothsteinHDemerittDPaulR, et al.Varieties of risk regulation in Europe: coordination, complementarity and occupational safety in capitalist welfare states. Socioecon Rev2019 Oct 1; 17: 993–1020.
13.
AlbrechtSLKelmanS. Regulating America, regulating Sweden: a comparative study of occupational safety and health policy. Contemp Sociol1982 Sep; 11: 66.
14.
WaltersD. Regulating health and safety management in the European Union: a study of the dynamics of change. In P.I.E.-Peter Lang.
15.
JainAHassardJLekaS, et al.The role of occupational health services in psychosocial risk management and the promotion of mental health and well-being at work. Int J Environ Res Public Health2021 Mar 31; 18: 3632.
16.
ElslerDEeckelaertL. Factors influencing the transferability of occupational safety and health economic incentive schemes between different countries. Scand J Work Environ Health2010 Jun; 36: 325–331.
17.
WaltersDR. Preventive services in occupational health and safety in Europe: developments and trends in the 1990s. Int J Health Serv1997 Apr 1; 27: 247–271.
18.
WaltersDR. Health and safety strategies in Europe. J Loss Prev Process Ind1996 Sep; 9: 297–308.
19.
VerraSEBenzergaAJiaoB, et al.Health promotion at work: a comparison of policy and practice across Europe. Saf Health Work2019 Mar; 10: 21–29.
20.
KarlsenJEHempel LindøeP. The nordic osh model at a turning point?Policy Pract Health Saf2006 Jan 5; 4: 17–30.
Akçay,E. Y. 24 Haziran Seçimleri Sürecinde Siyasi Partilerin Seçim Beyannamelerinde Avrupa Birliği İle İlişkiler. OPUS Uluslararası Toplum Araştırmaları Dergisi2018. doi:10.26466/opus.449745
23.
ArklanÜTanacıF. Seçı̇m Kampanyalarına Beyannameler Bağlamında Bı̇r Bakış: 31 Mart 2019 Yerel Seçı̇mlerı̇ Örneğı̇nde Karşılaştırmalı Bı̇r İnceleme. Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Vizyoner Dergisi2020 Feb 28; 11: 1–29.
24.
AytaçSE. Policy priorities in the election manifestos of political parties in Turkey, 2002–2015. SİYASAL: J Polit Sci2017 Dec 20. doi:10.26650/siyasal.2017.26.2.0001
25.
ÇatıKCengizS. Politik Pazarlama Çerçevesinde Siyasi Partilerin Seçim Beyannamelerinin İncelenmesi. Elektronik Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi2019 Oct 21: 1701–1712. doi:10.17755/esosder.542057
26.
ErtürkKÖŞeşenE. Bir Halkla İlişkiler Aracı Olarak Seçim Beyannameleri: 2000’li Yıllar Üzerine Bir İnceleme. Erciyes İletişim Dergisi2017 Jan 30; 5: 60–80.
27.
EvrenMB. Türk Siyasi Parti Tüzük ve Programlarında Bütünleşik Afet Yönetimi Bilinci. Resilience2023 Dec 31; 7: 221–251.
28.
KanMEKanS. Siyasi Partilerin Seçim Beyannamelerinde Kadın İstihdamı: 24 Haziran 2018 Milletvekili Genel Seçimleri Örneği. İşletme Ekonomi ve Yönetim Araştırmaları Dergisi2022 Jul 27; 5: 234–251.
29.
KanME. Siyasi Partilerin Seçim Beyannamelerinin Karşılaştırmalı Metin Analizi: 1 Kasım 2015 ve 24 Haziran 2018 Milletvekili Genel Seçimleri Örneği. İşletme Ekonomi ve Yönetim Araştırmaları Dergisi2023 Jan 25; 6: 1–14.
30.
TerkanB. Siyasi Partilerin Kadına İlişkin Söylem ve Politikaları (AKP ve CHP Örneği). Selçuk İletişim2013; 6: 115–136.
31.
TutanMN. Afetlerin Siyasal Söylemi: türkiye’de İktidar ve Muhalefetin Karşılıklı Çerçeveleme ve Algılamaları, 1999-2023. Marmara Üniversitesi İktisadi ve İdari Bilimler Dergisi2024 Dec 31; 46: 643–667.
32.
Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi. Cumhuriyet Dönemi Partiler, Seçimler ve Beyannameler (1923-1980). Kaynar MK, Kalkan N, editors. Ankara: TBMM, 2022.
Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi. 28. Dönem TBMM Albümü. Ankara: Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi Başkanlığı Basın, Yayın ve Halkla İlişkiler Başkanlığı, 2023, 1–393 p.
