Turkey

The rapid growth of the domestic economy has helped to sustain an expanding media landscape, although issues of media freedom remain an ongoing concern. For some, a sense of growing polarisation represents a danger; others regard it as the emergence of a healthier (if more contested) public sphere. Despite the challenge from online outlets, Turkish print journalism still maintains a diverse...

Although the health system faces an array of challenges, including human resource shortages, disparities between regions and rising costs, significant gains in the quality and accessibility of care have markedly improved the wellness of Turkey’s population. Moreover, as the economy expands, health companies and investors are well positioned to capitalise on growth opportunities in private...

Between 2000 and 2011, the number of students enrolled in higher education institutions doubled. According to a recent study, this increase should reduce the probability of a middle-income slowdown. The stakes for reform are high, given the key role the school system must play in facilitating the country’s transition to a more knowledge-oriented economy. With primary school enrolment up from...

With official figures from 2012 showing foreign arrivals continuing to edge upwards, year-on-year, Turkey has maintained its status as a leading global tourism destination. Collaboration at the public, private and non-governmental levels is seen as key to improving professional standards in the sector, and to meeting the goals outlined in the Tourism Strategy 2023. There are still challenges,...

After a brief dip following the onset of the global financial crisis, the telecoms sector has made a robust recovery, exceeding pre-crisis subscriber numbers in 2012. The domestic mobile network is now comparable to that of North America and Western Europe, in terms of penetration and services, with fixed-line services already reaching the majority of the population. A heavy tax regime is...

A favourable climate and proximity to affluent Europe and the dry Middle East make Turkey a global breadbasket and a natural destination for investors. Foreign direct investment is at unprecedented levels, reaching a total of $2.1bn by October 2012. Major government infrastructure projects are also set to boost the agriculture industry in the coming years. The sector is hampered by high levels...