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In the early 2010s, optimism was palpable across Türkiye. Young people felt confident about their future, economic growth created new opportunities, and a sense of progress uplifted public morale. Streets were busier, incomes were rising, and social life carried a belief that tomorrow could be better than today.
According to data from Statista spanning 2003–2023, the Turkish population experienced its highest happiness level in 2011. The research highlighted comparative satisfaction with life over two decades, marking 2011 as a “year of hope and optimism.”
During the first half of the 2000s, happiness levels were rising. Sociologists interviewed for this report explained that growing societal optimism, confidence among young people, and expectations of economic stability were key factors behind the 2011 peak.
However, data from 2023 show a reversal. Over the past decade, happiness levels have noticeably dropped. Experts cite economic fluctuations, high inflation, income inequality, and rising social tensions as the main reasons for reducing life satisfaction. Economic insecurity and political uncertainty have made people more cautious and anxious, undermining trust in the future.
Researchers also point to job dissatisfaction, limited social support, and a decline in optimism among youth as contributing factors. A recent report by the World Happiness Report noted that access to social services and perceptions of fairness in society are central to life satisfaction, and deficits in these areas heighten feelings of uncertainty and stress.
Türkiye’s declining happiness is reflected in global indexes. The World Happiness Report ranked Türkiye 106th out of more than 130 countries in 2023, a significant drop from 2011. Earlier reports had already signaled fluctuating happiness levels, with Türkiye ranking 70th in 2015 and 76th in 2018, as economic and social pressures increased.
Experts emphasized that economic security, perceptions of justice, access to health care, social belonging, and a sense of freedom are key drivers of happiness.
As Türkiye navigates ongoing economic and social transformations, researchers suggest that addressing inequality, strengthening social trust, and ensuring access to quality services are crucial steps to restoring hope and optimism among citizens.
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