On 8-9 April 2025, key social partners in Turkiye’s textile and clothing sector gathered in Istanbul under the EU-funded StitchTogether project to address the industry’s transformation amid digital, green, and social challenges. The event culminated in the presentation of the Istanbul Declaration a joint commitment by employers and trade unions to promote social dialogue and shared responsibility in navigating change.
The seminar brought together representatives from the Turkish employer association TTSİS, national trade unions including Teksif, Oz İplik İş and DİSK Tekstil, as well as global brands, the Ministry of Labour, the International Labour Organisation (ILO), and the Social Labour Convergence Programme. Discussions focused on upskilling the workforce, implementing responsible business conduct, and supporting just transition initiatives.
The Istanbul Declaration calls on the Turkish government and the European Union to strengthen support for regional development, sustainability, and fair labour practices in the industry. Social partners agreed on a shared roadmap to boost competitiveness while safeguarding workers rights.
IndustriAll Europe’s General Secretary Judith Kirton-Darling emphasised solidarity with over one million Turkish textile workers, highlighting the need for freedom of association and collective bargaining. Euratex Director General Dirk Vantyghem noted that constructive dialogue is essential to help companies remain flexible and competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.
