Retiree in Turkey: 'Let those who set this pension try to live on 20,000 lira themselves'

Retirees and farmers in Kadirli, Osmaniye, Turkey, are voicing their struggles with the escalating cost of living, stating they cannot make ends meet or reach the end of the month. Many report that their pensions and agricultural incomes are woefully inadequate for basic necessities. One retired citizen shared the difficulty of affording necessities, mentioning the need to borrow from the market. Another retiree, who sells milk to supplement their income, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the current pension levels. "Let those who set this monthly income, who determine the allowance, try to live on 20,000 lira themselves," they urged, highlighting the inadequacy of the pension amount. Citizens in Kadirli are finding it increasingly challenging to cover even essential expenses. The insufficient income from pensions and farming means many are struggling. One individual noted that their 20,000 lira pension is depleted within a week, leaving little for bills, market expenses, and agricultural costs like animal medication and veterinary care. "If I didn't sell milk in the market, I couldn't make ends meet with my pension, we would die of pain," the person stated, emphasizing their reliance on selling milk. The sentiment of financial strain is widespread, with one retiree lamenting that their pension doesn't even last 15 days, forcing them to borrow money for essential purchases like sacrificial meat for the upcoming Eid al-Adha holiday. The lack of funds also prevents them from visiting family during holiday breaks.

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Let those who set this monthly income, who determine the allowance, try to live on 20,000 lira themselves.