Turkey
Overview
Please review the information below and then return to the workplace harassment prevention course.
Harassment and discrimination based on a protected characteristic are prohibited under national law. National law also provides employees protection from bullying.
Applicable Laws
The primary national laws prohibiting employment discrimination and harassment on the basis of any protected characteristic are:
- The Labor Code,
- The Code of Obligations and
- Employment Law no. 4857.
Protected Characteristics
Harassment or discrimination based on any characteristic set forth below is prohibited in Turkey.
- Sex
- Race
- Language
- Religion
- Political opinions
- Philosophical beliefs
- Any other similar grounds
Regional, state or other political subdivision laws may provide additional, separate standards and remedies for certain prohibited conduct.
Definitions
Harassment
Harassment is defined as verbal or behavioural treatment committed by one or more individuals working in the same environment (or within the same organisation) that:
- Is committed in a systematic way with a certain purpose,
- Is aimed towards another employee, and
- May give rise to frustration, fear, disquiet, concern, depression, distress, boredom or anxiety in that employee.
Filing a Claim in Turkey
Employment discrimination and harassment claims may be filed in court.
Potential Remedies
In Turkey, an employee who has experienced workplace discrimination or harassment may be entitled to monetary and other remedies. An employer may be required to take certain actions to correct or redress discriminatory harassment or violations of workplace safety standards. Potential remedies are listed below.
- Reinstatement to a position
- Compensation for lost wages and benefits
- Damages for injury to dignity or feelings
- Cease and desist orders
Retaliation Prohibited
Employer retaliation against an employee who files a complaint relating to discrimination or harassment or is involved in the complaint process is unlawful.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only.
It does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice.