Retired civil servant collecting bottles to survive on meager pension in Turkey

A retired Turkish civil servant, who served for 30 years, is resorting to collecting bottles and cans to survive due to a pension that falls far short of covering basic living expenses. The individual shared their plight with DEVA Party leader Ali Babacan in Antalya, revealing that their pension of 27,000 lira is insufficient to cover rent, which alone costs 21,000 lira.

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I am collecting bottles and cans, this is how I've ended up.

"I am collecting bottles and cans, this is how I've ended up," the pensioner stated, expressing the harsh reality of their financial struggles. They explained that their meager pension barely covers essentials, leaving no room for other expenses like electricity and water bills. The stark contrast between their decades of service and their current situation underscores the depth of the economic hardship faced by many.

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You worked for 30 years, paid your dues, and your pension is not enough.

Babacan, visibly concerned, acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, noting, "You worked for 30 years, paid your dues, and your pension is not enough." The pensioner further elaborated on their living conditions, mentioning they reside in an old building because they cannot afford to move. This encounter highlights the widespread cost of living crisis in Turkey, where even those with long public service careers are finding it impossible to maintain a dignified life on their retirement income.

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My pension is 27,000 lira. Rent is 21,000 lira. I have no money for electricity or water. The pension is not enough.