A new ministry is coming: The Family Minister even gave it a name
Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş stated that the weakening of family ties could create new social threats, and that in this process, it might become necessary to implement new state bodies such as a "Ministry of Loneliness."
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Making assessments via her social media account, Minister Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş issued a warning against the increasing rhetoric of individuals who view having children as difficult and share such sentiments. Citing international research, Göktaş underscored that the happiness levels of married individuals with children are higher compared to other groups.
Minister Göktaş stated that the family unit forms the foundation of social solidarity, emphasizing that a weakening in the institution of the family could increase feelings of individual loneliness. In her statement on this context, she reminded that some countries have established separate institutions at the state level to combat loneliness.
In her remarks, Göktaş said, "Parenting is challenging at times, but it is not just about difficulties. However, being a family, being together, and staying together is very precious. The family is the source of our most important psychological sustainability. We need more crowded tables, visits to relatives, and neighborhood culture. Otherwise, we might be forced to establish a 'Ministry of Loneliness' as some countries have done," emphasizing that Turkey could also face such a risk.
This statement, which resonated with the public, sparked debates on social media and various platforms. While the view that strengthening family relationships is critical for social welfare has found support in wide circles, experts also emphasize the importance of public policies for protecting interpersonal bonds.