Article 5 of the Labour Law No. 4857, “Principle of Equal Treatment”

4857 Sayılı İş Kanununun “Eşit Davranma İlkesi” Başlıklı 5. Maddesi

The purpose of Article 5 of the Labour Law No. 4857, titled “Principle of Equal Treatment”, is to ensure non-discrimination in employment based on language, race, colour, gender, disability, political opinion, philosophical belief, religion, and similar reasons. The article – and the law in general – involves employers and employees in all sectors, with oversight by relevant labour authorities. This article applies to all employment relationships within Türkiye, covering both full-time and part-time workers, as well as those on fixed-term and indefinite contracts. Key features include prohibiting discrimination in hiring, working conditions, and termination based on gender or pregnancy. It mandates equal pay for equal work regardless of gender and allows employees to claim compensation for violations. Employers must adhere to these regulations, and employees can seek redress through legal channels if discrimination occurs. Specific measures targeting older persons are not mentioned. The policy was adopted on February 6, 2014.