Hunger and poverty thresholds at record levels: Cost of living crisis deepens

According to research by the United Public Workers Confederation (Birleşik Kamu-İş), the hunger threshold rose by 541 liras in November to 22,565 liras, while the poverty threshold increased by 1,426 liras to 69,681 liras. The rise in food and living expenses is making it increasingly difficult for families to maintain their standard of living.

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Hunger and poverty thresholds at record levels: Cost of living crisis deepens

The United Public Workers Confederation (Birleşik Kamu-İş) has released its November 2024 research, which determines the amount of expenditure required for a family of four to maintain a balanced and healthy diet and meet their basic needs.

In November, the hunger threshold rose by 541 liras to 22,565 liras, while the poverty threshold climbed to 69,681 liras. The increase in the poverty threshold compared to the previous month was 1,426 liras, and it has risen by a total of 24,635 liras over the past year.

The hunger threshold is 5,563 liras above the minimum wage, and it is noted that the minimum wage can only cover 24% of the poverty threshold. The lowest pension was raised to 12,500 liras in July, but this amount can only cover 55% of the hunger threshold.

NON-FOOD EXPENDITURES ALSO HIT RECORD HIGHS

Total non-food expenditures were calculated at 47,115 liras. Families' expenses for clothing, health, education, and other basic living costs have increased significantly. For instance, health expenditures rose to 1,876 liras, while housing costs increased to 12,369 liras. Furthermore, non-food expenditures have increased by a total of 16,761 liras over the last year.

In the first eleven months of the year, the total expenditure required for a family of four to meet their needs increased by 6,917 liras. The poverty threshold is exacerbating the cost of living crisis, especially for low-income families, and is placing serious pressure on living standards.

In the calculation of the hunger threshold, the caloric requirement for each individual was taken as a basis. As of November, the hunger threshold was determined to be 6,588 liras for an adult male, 5,172 liras for a woman, 7,050 liras for a youth, and 3,755 liras for a child.

News Source: 12punto