The unemployment rate is probably much higher because of the hidden economy. In general the employment market needs to be modernised to cope with competition. The social security system is in serious financial difficulty. It is currently undergoing reform. In the healthcare field, the situation is generally considered unsatisfactory, taking into account the level of socio-economic development.
Turkey is well behind the Member States with regard to most health indicators.
Considerable efforts are therefore required to improve healthcare services. In the field of social dialogue, Turkey has a number of organisations representing employees and workers. No progress has been made on health and safety, labour law or equal opportunities since the previous report. Although the Constitution recognises gender equality, serious efforts are needed to ensure implementation and enforcement of equal treatment.