Unveiling The Dynamics of Solo Entrepreneurship in Turkey: A Gender Perspective

In recent years, Turkey has witnessed a significant transformation in its labor market, characterized by a notable shift towards self-employment without employees. This trend has been particularly pronounced among women, marking a significant change in the gender dynamics of the Turkish workforce. By examining data from 2006 to 2020, a period of substantial economic and social change, we can uncover the factors driving this trend and its implications for the future of work in Turkey.

Breaking Down the Data

The collected data points towards a steady increase in the percentage of self-employed women without employees, starting from 12.04% in 2006 and experiencing fluctuations that culminate in an 8.85% in 2020. Conversely, self-employed men without employees began at a higher rate of 24.21% in 2006, gradually decreasing to 18.21% by 2020. This trend indicates a narrowing gender gap in the realm of solo entrepreneurship in Turkey.

Historical and Economic Context

The landscape of self-employment in Turkey cannot be fully understood without considering its broader economic and political context. Several factors contribute to the observed trends:

• Economic Crises: The economic downturns of 2001 and 2008 significantly impacted the Turkish economy, leading many to turn to self-employment as a means of sustenance.
• Legal and Economic Reforms: Starting in the early 2000s, Turkey enacted numerous reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and encouraging entrepreneurship, thereby creating a more conducive environment for self-employment.
• Technological Advancements: The proliferation of digital platforms has lowered the barriers to entry for entrepreneurs, particularly benefitting women by providing flexible work arrangements.

Interpreting the Statistics

These data and historical insights suggest that the increase in self-employment among women is not merely a byproduct of economic necessity but also a reflection of shifting societal norms and the empowerment of women in the Turkish business landscape. The decreasing trend among men, on the other hand, could indicate a diversification of employment opportunities or a shift in the nature of entrepreneurship in Turkey.

Data Source: OECD (2024), Self-employed without employees (indicator). doi: 10.1787/5d5d0d63-en (Accessed on 19 February 2024)

Actionable Insights for Stakeholders

For policymakers and stakeholders, understanding these trends is crucial for developing supportive frameworks that enhance the economic contributions of solo entrepreneurs. Encouraging female entrepreneurship, improving access to finance, and fostering a culture of innovation are key strategies that could further stimulate the self-employment sector in Turkey. Additionally, adapting educational systems to equip future generations with entrepreneurial skills could provide a sustainable foundation for ongoing economic transformation.

The journey of self-employment in Turkey reflects a broader narrative of economic resilience, societal transformation, and the redefinition of traditional gender roles in the business world. As Turkey continues to navigate its path towards economic modernization and social change, the role of self-employed individuals without employees will undoubtedly remain a crucial piece of the puzzle.

Cagri Sarigoz( Founder )

I’m founder of BizStack at Cagri Sarigoz LLC and a passionate advocate for entrepreneurs.

With over 14 years in tech, marketing, and AI, including my role as Head of SEO at CitizenShipper and co-founder of TaleBot at Intale AI, I’m dedicated to sharing genuine, useful product insights and tips.

At BizStack, I aim to cut through the digital noise to provide clear, actionable advice.

And more than all else, I’m a father to a (always) little girl and a husband.

Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.