Yaşlı Sorunları Araştırma Dergisi

Öz

This study aims to seek an answer to the questions about whether ageing of labour force based on the ageing of active population poses a problem for Turkey and if there is such a possibility, what can be the precautions to be taken today Demographic characteristics of the population also determine the active population that is the principal determinant of labour supply. For this reason, the changes occurring in the demographical structure also influence labour supply. Especially the demographic transformation occurred in the last 50 years has caused an increase in the rate of aged labour force in many developed and developing countries. This situation, seeming more of a problem for the developed countries, will soon become a problem for the countries which have begun to complete their demographical transition period. In this study, the effects of democratic transformation on labour supply in Turkey are analysed within the frame of the aged labour force, whose ages range from 55 to 64. For the method of the study, population projections developed within the frame of demographical transformation theory are analysed. At the same time current situation of the OECD countries, having completed their demographical transition period, and the policies they have developed towards aged labour force’s employment are analysed and inferences are made for Turkey. Within this scope, when the fact that today’s current young labour force are the future’s aged labour force and the obligation that more aged labour force will be employed as a result of the aged population are approached together, it is clear that present young labour force’s educational level must be increased. For this reason, existing formal education’s level should be primarily enhanced and lifelong learning programs should be developed. On the other hand, public subventions increasing the employability of aged labourers should be implemented. Especially the groups who cannot attend educational programs because of their ages and cannot find chance of employment for this reason should be supported. In addition, part time working that provides more appropriate working opportunities for aged labourers and consequently extends the time of leaving the labour market should be promoted.