Over the last two decades, Turkey has undergone substantial strides in economic and human development. However, examining the nation’s geographic landscape meticulously reveals uneven regional progress. Notably, the Socio-Economic Development Index (SEGE) researchconducted by Turkey’s Ministry of Industry and Technology in 2017 underscores pronounced developmental disparities, particularly evident in the southeast region. As indicated by the study, these regional inequalities are not incidental but systemic and structural across various categories.
The Eşitsizlik Bülteni has been conceived to systematically observe and illuminate these disparities, catalyzing heightened awareness among the public and decision-makers.
Defining Inequality:
In the context of this bulletin, inequality refers to the variance in wealth distribution among individuals. The magnitude of this variance directly correlates with the level of inequality, encompassing multifaceted economic, social, and political dimensions that exhibit temporal and spatial variations.
Methodology:
The Eşitsizlik Bülteni adopts a targeted approach by focusing on a designated “Inequality Region” and juxtaposing its socioeconomic indicators with those of other cities in Turkey. This specific region encompasses cities classified as the 6th level according to the SEGE study, predominantly situated in the Eastern and Southeastern regions of Turkey and characterized by a significant Kurdish population, as outlined by the Ministry of Industry and Technology’s 2017 report.
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As per the SEGE study, Istanbul has the highest score in Turkey, boasting a remarkable 4+ points, while all provinces in tier 6 exhibit scores below zero. Şırnak ranks at the lowest, with a notable -1,788 points. The disparities become particularly pronounced when comparing provinces with the highest scores in each tier, emphasizing the stark situation in tier 6.
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To dissect inequality, the Eşitsizlik Bülteni primarily delves into indicators outlined in the “Life in Provinces Index” study conducted by TurkStat (TÜİK) in 2016. These encompass housing, working life, income and wealth, health, education, environment, security, civic participation, access to infrastructure services, social life, and life satisfaction. Complementing TurkStat data, our analysis incorporates information from official and independent data institutions, both domestically and globally.
Ultimately, the Inequality Bulletin is a collaborative effort spearheaded by researchers and civil society volunteers at the Kurdish Studies Center. Developed with the backing of the European Union Sivil Düşün Program, the bulletin’s contents reflect its creators’ responsibility and do not necessarily mirror the perspectives of supporting institutions.