DİSK's minimum wage march concludes in Ankara

The Confederation of Progressive Trade Unions of Turkey (DİSK) organized a march from Istanbul to Ankara ahead of the determination of the minimum wage to be applied in 2026.

The march, which began in Gebze on December 21, concluded today in Ankara. DİSK President Arzu Çerkezoğlu made significant statements at a press conference held in the capital.

INCOME JUSTICE AND MINIMUM WAGE

Çerkezoğlu stated that the march carried the common demands of laborers from all corners of Turkey. Emphasizing that there was participation from many sectors, ranging from metal workers to textile employees, Çerkezoğlu drew attention to the injustice in income distribution. Stating that employees do not receive the share they deserve from the value they produce, Çerkezoğlu called for justice in income and taxation.

Noting that the minimum wage has effectively become the average wage, Çerkezoğlu said that economic conditions have reduced purchasing power. Reminding that the Minimum Wage Determination Commission will meet again, she reacted against determining wage increases based on targeted inflation.

Touching upon the economic difficulties of retirees, the tax system, and severance pay, Çerkezoğlu stated that the tax burden is concentrated on employees and retirees. Emphasizing that acquired rights must be protected, Çerkezoğlu concluded her speech with a call to uphold labor and the country's common values. She stated that the march aimed to make the demands of workers and the public visible.

News Source: 12punto