Artificial Intelligence and Employment in Turkey: Social and Economic Impacts of Transformation


Arvas M. A., Taşdemir C.

13th International Paris Congress on Social Sciences and Humanities, Paris, Fransa, 9 - 11 Mart 2026, ss.1-22, (Tam Metin Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Tam Metin Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Paris
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Fransa
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1-22
  • Van Yüzüncü Yıl Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

The rapid global proliferation of artificial intelligence technologies has sparked profound debates about the future of work. This study examines the multidimensional effects of this transformation on the labor market, specifically in Turkey. The research comprehensively addresses the sectoral distribution of artificial intelligence, changes in labor-market dynamics, potential social inequalities, and the policy implications for decision-makers.

The study's principal findings demonstrate that a significant portion of Turkey's approximately 31.5 million employment base is at risk of AI-supported automation. While routine tasks in manufacturing, retail, logistics, and finance sectors face high pressure to transform, sectors such as health, education, and agriculture will undergo task redefinition. In social dimensions, polarization by educational levels, deepening regional development disparities, and the risk of increased gender inequality are prominent concerns.

Although Turkey's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, announced in 2021, represents an important step in this field, desired levels have not yet been achieved in implementation. The current 2,500 AI companies and approximately 20,000 employment figures remain considerably below the country's potential. The study argues that for this transformation to be successfully managed, the education system must be restructured, lifelong learning mechanisms strengthened, social protection systems updated, and regional development policies integrated with digital transformation.

In conclusion, the AI transformation is an inevitable reality for Turkey. Rather than perceiving this transformation as a threat, it is possible to convert it into an opportunity through proactive policies. However, this can only be realized through a "human-centered" approach that positions technology not in place of humans, but alongside them.