SGK President Raises Bar: 5 Children

Yadigar Gökalp Ilhan, Turkey’s Social Security Agency (SGK) President, urged every woman to give birth to 5 children in Turkey. 

“What our Prime Minister said about having 3 children is only the minimum. We will need more young working population in the years to come,” he said. 

According to an article by Hacer Boyacıoğlu on Radikal newspaper, some of Ilhan’s remarks included:

“The number of children is crucial. I don’t know why people are getting this wrong. But we are doing good until 2036 with the reforms we implemented and other factors. But after that, we will face issues regarding the sustainability of our retirement system as the fertility rate will decline. Our PM urges for 3, but this is only the minimum. 

“Five children. Let’s know the facts, let’s know what we need. Economic conditions also play an important role. Certainly children will required a thorough education. But there is also another issue. Those with good economic condition don’t want to have children.”

By 2012, Turkey’s fertility rate is 2.1 births per woman. With an average of 1.8, EU countries aim to reach 2.1. (ÇT/BM)

* Click here to read the original article in Turkish.