The effects of neoliberal economic policies on the agricultural sector in Turkey

The contribution of the agricultural sector to the Turkish economy is undeniable. Agricultural policies have evolved throughout the historical process. After the 1970s, neoliberal policies became popular around the world and similarly in Turkey with the Decisions of January 24, 1980. The January 24 Decisions resulted in many changes in the economic and agricultural policies in Turkey. The main objectives of the policies implemented in the agricultural sector are to increase productivity and competition, ensure food safety and achieve sustainable agriculture. How the policies implemented for these purposes affect the output of agricultural production is of utmost importance. In this regard, the study will examine how the neoliberal economy and agricultural policies influence the agricultural sector in Turkey. The key question in this study is to identify the effects of the economic policies of the post-1980s on today's agricultural sector. The consequences of the changes that emerge after the domination of the Neoliberal economic outlook in agricultural production will be examined. From the fundamental views that determine the Neoliberal economic policies, it is discussed how similar policies that are applied in the world are applied in Turkey. The reviews have shown that the neoliberal economic policies have negative effects on the agricultural industry due to method and application errors. The difference between the potential production amount and the current production amount of the agricultural industry is not satisfactory for the industry and the country. A qualitative research method was applied that focused on the purpose, results, and proposition of the thesis study. Evaluation and data of national and international institutions and organizations are utilized as secondary sources in the context of the study.