Workers' Union Reacts to Employers' Representative's Statements on Minimum Wage

In response to Arhun's remarks, HAKSEN released a written statement, stating, "It is normal for someone like Metin Arhun, looking from a privileged position in the country, to make comments about the minimum wage and assume that everyone is living comfortably. People like Mr. Arhun, who effortlessly spend several times more than the minimum wage on a single meal without any concerns, do exist in this country, and it is true that, for them, the country is very comfortable."

However, the statement emphasizes that the reality of the country goes beyond this minority and privileged group. It highlights the struggles of workers who, after covering expenses for electricity, water, and gas, have to manage their lives with insufficient funds for an entire month. HAKSEN emphasizes that these individuals, who run out of money after paying their rent and bills at the beginning of the month, also have the right to a humane life, just like people such as Metin Arhun.

The statement points out a fundamental issue with the existence of the Minimum Wage Determination Commission: the absence of representation for private sector workers who earn the minimum wage at the table where decisions are made. HAKSEN calls for the immediate dissolution of the Minimum Wage Determination Commission, arguing that the fate of workers should not be determined at a table where they are not represented. They propose fixing the minimum wage at the lowest salary in the public sector, ensuring that salary increases in the public sector are regularly reflected in the minimum wage, thus removing the fate of workers from being determined solely by those who live in a "very comfortable and beautiful country" like Mr. Arhun.