What’s really behind falling birth rates with Neslihan Çevik

Neslihan Çevik, a sociologist, former politician, consultant and non-resident fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture at the University of Virginia, joined Turkey recap editor Diego Cupolo to discuss falling fertility rates in Turkey.Çevik expanded on the ideas she outlined in a recent commentary for the National News, titled “This is what the Muslim world needs to do to boost its birth rate”. Using examples from Turkey, the Middle East and other regions, Çevik argued marriage norms and expectations play a larger role in determining birth rates than other more commonly cited – and more polarizing – theories.Also referenced in this talk:Birth Statistics, 2023 (TurkStat)Statistics on Child, 2024 (TurkStat)Dependency and depopulation? Confronting the consequences of a new demographic reality (McKinsey. & Company)Other ways to watch & listen:Our webcasts are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast players.Turkey recap is an independent, reader-supported newsletter that helps people make sense of the fast-paced Turkey news cycle. Contact us: [email protected] here on Substack (or on Patreon for discount options). Paid subscribers get full access to our recaps, reports, members-only chat and news tracking tools.Turkey recap is produced by our staff’s non-profit association, KMD. We are an affiliate of the Global Forum for Media Development and aim to create balanced news that strengthens local media by supporting journalists in Turkey.Diego Cupolo, Editor-in-chiefEmily Rice Johnson, Deputy editorGünsu Durak, Turkey recap Türkçe editorCeren Bayar, Parliament correspondent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.turkeyrecap.com/subscribe