Decent work: An analysis on the health sector

This thesis examines the concept of "decent work," developed by the International Labour Organization (ILO), specifically within the context of the Turkish health sector. The primary aim of the study is to analyze the work experiences of healthcare professionals in relation to the core dimensions of decent work—employment, labor rights, social security, and social dialogue—and to evaluate the extent to which current conditions align with these standards. A qualitative research approach was adopted, and in-depth interviews were conducted with healthcare workers serving in various roles within the sector. The interview data were analyzed systematically, and the structural and individual-level problems encountered by healthcare workers were categorized accordingly. The findings reveal that the vast majority of participants face challenges such as long working hours, low wages, staff shortages, job insecurity, limited access to union rights, insufficient opportunities for professional development, and exposure to violence in healthcare settings. In addition, regional and gender-based inequalities were also found to have a negative impact on working conditions. In conclusion, it was determined that a large proportion of healthcare workers in Turkey have limited access to decent work conditions. This presents a significant risk both for employee well-being and for the sustainability of healthcare services. Accordingly, the study offers a set of policy recommendations aimed at strengthening decent work in the health sector.