The Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) has released labor force statistics for November 2024. According to the data, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 8.6%, reflecting a 0.1 percentage point decrease compared to the previous month. The number of unemployed individuals decreased by 84,000, reaching a total of 3.072 million.

Unemployment Rates Among Men and Women

When analyzed by gender:

  • The unemployment rate for men was 7.0%,
  • While for women, it was 11.7%.

These figures indicate that there is still significant potential for improvement in female labor force participation.

Employment Contraction: Dropped to 49.6%

In November, the number of employed individuals decreased by 168,000, bringing the total to 32.748 million. The employment rate declined by 0.2 percentage points, falling to 49.6%.

  • Employment rate for men: 67.1%
  • Employment rate for women: 32.4%

This decline suggests a contraction in the labor market that is not solely due to seasonal effects.

Decrease in Labor Force Participation

In November 2024, the labor force participation rate was recorded at 54.2%, marking a 0.4 percentage point decrease compared to the previous month. The total labor force decreased by 252,000, dropping to 35.820 million.

  • Labor force participation rate for men: 72.1%
  • Labor force participation rate for women: 36.7%

The low participation rate among women highlights an ongoing issue related to gender equality in the workforce.

Decline in Youth Unemployment Rate

Among the 15-24 age group, the youth unemployment rate decreased by 0.5 percentage points, falling to 15.8% compared to the previous month.

  • Youth unemployment rate for men: 11.9%
  • Youth unemployment rate for women: 23.0%

This improvement in youth unemployment is a positive development, which should be supported with more inclusive employment policies moving forward.

Increase in Average Working Hours

The seasonally and calendar-adjusted average weekly actual working hours increased by 0.3 hours in November 2024, reaching 42.9 hours.
This rise indicates an increase in work intensity within the labor market.

Summary

The November 2024 labor force data points to a partial improvement in unemployment rates, but the declines in both employment and labor force participation rates are concerning. Significant disparities remain in women’s and youth unemployment rates, emphasizing the need for more inclusive labor market policies.

In light of these figures, there is a clear need for:

  • Programs supporting women and youth employment,
  • Incentives to boost job creation, and
  • Structural reforms aimed at increasing labor force participation, which are critical for sustainable economic growth.