The minimum wage has already melted against inflation... Citizens are expecting a raise: Will there be a minimum wage hike?

With the 30 percent increase in January 2025, which raised the minimum wage to 22,104 TL, there is eager anticipation regarding whether there will be a new interim raise in July. This expectation has strengthened further following the inflation data announced by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK).

According to TÜİK, the inflation rate for the first four months of the year was announced as 12.76 percent. In the process where the 6-month inflation difference will be the determining factor, the April data will be shared with the public on Monday, May 5. These figures will play a decisive role in the rate if an interim raise is implemented.

CLEAR DEMAND FROM UNIONS

Major labor confederations such as Türk-İş and DİSK argue that an interim raise for the minimum wage is essential, stating that employees must be protected against rising living costs. The joint demand of the unions is for the first 6-month inflation difference to be fully reflected in the minimum wage.

VEDAT IŞIKHAN HAD GIVEN A SIGNAL

Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan had previously stated, "In the process of determining the minimum wage that will be valid in 2025, we are working with determination for a balanced solution that will increase the welfare of our employees while protecting the competitiveness of our employers." Whether the Ministry is open to an interim raise has not yet been clarified.

HUNGER AND POVERTY THRESHOLDS ARE ABOVE THE MINIMUM WAGE

According to the latest data from TÜİK, the hunger threshold for a family of four has reached 23,615 TL, while the poverty threshold has reached 76,922 TL. The cost of living for a single employee was calculated at 30,617 TL. These data reinforce criticisms that the current minimum wage is insufficient to meet basic needs.

For an interim raise to be implemented in July, the Minimum Wage Determination Commission must convene. The working class and unions expect the commission to meet as soon as possible and clarify the decision on a raise.

According to a report by Tgrt, it is being discussed behind the scenes that a possible raise to the minimum wage could be between 15 and 25 percent. However, this rate will be shaped according to the 6-month inflation difference and the government's economic balance policies.