The Grand National Assembly of Türkiye has begun reviewing a comprehensive draft law aimed at modernizing social legislation, with key provisions focusing on parental rights and tighter regulation of digital platforms.
A central measure in the proposal is the extension of maternity leave from 16 to 24 weeks. Women within the postnatal period at the time the law enters into force will be eligible—upon request—for an additional eight weeks. Paternity leave is also set to increase from five to ten days, signaling a broader push toward family support policies.
The bill further introduces new rights for civil servants who become foster families, granting them ten days of paid leave starting from the placement of a child, in line with efforts to encourage family-based care over institutional solutions.
On the digital front, the legislation proposes stricter oversight of social media and gaming platforms. Access to social networks would be restricted for children under 15, with mandatory age verification systems, while gaming platforms would be required to adhere to official content classification standards.
In addition, the draft law includes expanded social assistance measures, providing direct financial support to women and children with insufficient income. These benefits will be delivered without deductions and are designed to strengthen family care systems and reduce dependence on institutional support.
The proposal is currently under discussion as part of parliament’s weekly agenda, alongside party group meetings and the presentation of a joint subcommittee report tied to the 2025 public ombudsman’s annual review.
Source: Newstimehub
