Trade Unions and Art in Turkey: Dilemmas and Possibilities

On 1 February 2023, we presented the abstract of our study titled “Trade Unions and Art in Turkey: Dilemmas and Possibilities” at the 17th National Social Sciences Congress. This national event was organised by the Turkish Social Sciences Association (TSSA) at Middle East Technical University (METU) from 1-3 February 2023. We prepared this work in collaboration with my esteemed professor Prof. Dr. Ahmet Makal and my dear colleague Res. Asst. Özge Kahraman Ersöz.

This study examines the relationship between the trade union struggle and the function of art in reflecting social problems and fostering public awareness. Our field research, which reveals the current state of artistic activities undertaken by trade unions in Türkiye, identified fundamental dilemmas such as the quantitative insufficiency of these activities, their passive nature, and a lack of institutionalisation. Considering the economic and de facto constraints faced by unions, the paper discusses solution proposals to ensure that art occupies a more active and institutionalised position within trade union life.

This work, originally presented at the congress, was subsequently published as a research article in Çalışma ve Toplum Journal. Additionally, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Makal featured this article in his compilation book, which brings together his writings on labour and art.

The congress book of abstracts has been published in both digital and print formats. To access information regarding the congress programme, please click on the book cover image below.