Turkey: 214 Workers Died in July, Report Finds

A report released by İSİG reveals a grim toll of workplace fatalities in Turkey, with at least 214 workers losing their lives in July alone. This brings the total number of work-related deaths in the first seven months of 2026 to a staggering 1,279.

The data highlights the perilous conditions across various sectors. In July, 42 farmers, herders, and beekeepers died while working in fields and caring for animals. The industrial sector recorded the highest number of fatalities with 73 deaths, followed by construction with 60, agriculture with 45, and the service sector with 36.

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In July, 12 child laborers died, including four in agriculture, two in metal, two in construction, and one each in accommodation and transportation. Additionally, at least 11 women workers lost their lives, with five in agriculture, two in accommodation, and one each in food, cement, health, and municipal services.

The report also sheds light on the vulnerability of specific groups. Twelve child laborers died in July, including four in agriculture, two in metal, two in construction, and one each in accommodation and transportation. Additionally, at least 11 women workers lost their lives, with five in agriculture, two in accommodation, and one each in food, cement, health, and municipal services.

Alarmingly, the report indicates that only 3% of the workers who died in July were union members, while a vast majority, 97%, were not affiliated with any union. This statistic underscores a potential gap in worker representation and safety advocacy.

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3% of the workers who died in July were union members, while a vast majority, 97%, were not affiliated with any union.