The Turkish Labour and Employment Agency (İŞKUR) is a government agency in Turkey that is responsible for overseeing the labour market and providing employment services to citizens. It was established in 1946 and operates currently under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The Unemployment Insurance Fund, one of the biggest funds in Turkey, is being governed by the Agency.
İŞKUR’s main functions include:
- Job placement services: İŞKUR maintains a database of job openings and job seekers and matches employers with qualified candidates. The agency also provides job search assistance and career counseling services to individuals seeking employment.
- Unemployment benefits: İŞKUR provides financial assistance to eligible individuals who are unemployed. This assistance is provided for a limited period of time (up to ten months) and is based on the individual’s employment history, declared unemployment insurance premiums and earnings subjected to insurance premium. If an employee become unemployment as to deserve unemployment benefit he or she must apply to İŞKUR for getting the benefit.
- Oversight of the Turkish Unemployment Fund: Although the unemployment insurance premiums are being collected by the Turkish Social Security Institution (SGK), the oversight and management of the fund is beign made by İŞKUR.
- Vocational training: İŞKUR provides vocational training programs to help individuals acquire new skills and increase their employability. The agency also provides apprenticeship and internships opportunities to individuals seeking to gain experience in a particular field.
- Labour market information: İŞKUR collects and analyzes data on the Turkish Labour Market, including employment levels, job vacancies, and unemployment rates. It uses this information to develop policies and programs aimed at improving the labour market and reducing unemployment.
İŞKUR’s services are provided through a network of regional offices throughout Turkey. These offices are called Provincial Directorates of İŞKUR. The agency’s budget is approved by the Turkish parliament each year, and it is funded through government appropriations.
In summary, The Turkish Labour and Employment Agency (İŞKUR) is a government agency in Turkey that is responsible for overseeing the labour market, providing employment services to citizens, job placement services, provide unemployment benefits, vocational training and labour market oversight. It operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and its services are provided through a network of regional offices throughout Turkey. If an employee become unemployment as to deserve unemployment benefit he or she must apply to İŞKUR for getting the unemployment benefit.
