Stories from Istanbul · Turkey

Addiction rates, particularly for smoking and tobacco, have significantly increased in Turkey over the last decade. Currently, 34.1% of the population uses cigarettes or tobacco, with rates at 46% among men. The perception of tobacco use as normal is growing, prompting new legislative efforts. A report indicates that child delinquency has become a threat in Turkey. Last year, 478 children were involved in 266 murders. Of the children driven into crime, 70% are aged between 15 and 17. Additionally, 29% of those involved in murders belong to the 12-14 age group. Industrial accidents accounted for 33 percent of sectoral deaths in Turkey. Monthly fatalities rose from 106 in January to 126 in February and 148 in March. New regulations will also increase maternity leave from 16 to 24 weeks and prohibit children under 15 from joining social networks.

A new environmental initiative is scanning 1,300 kilometers of coastline in the Marmara Sea to identify and protect surviving seagrass beds. The project aims to determine the distribution of these habitats to support marine life and sea farming efforts. Researchers are focusing on identifying specific species within these coastal zones to inform conservation strategies. Scientists plan to map similar seagrass areas across the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Future protections may include banning anchoring and net fishing in identified seagrass zones. The study was conducted with support from the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change's General Directorate of Protection of Natural Assets. The presence of sea grass is noted to be higher in northern regions near Black Sea water currents.

Turkish officials are exploring the possibility of hosting Formula 1 races to stimulate destination tourism. The initiative aims to leverage the sport's massive global following to increase visitor numbers in Istanbul. Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy noted that the Istanbul Park circuit previously hosted over 110,000 spectators in 2005.

Turkey is commemorating the 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings on April 25, 1915. Allied forces attempted to pass through the Dardanelles by sea but were met by Turkish forces upon landing in Gallipoli, with the 27th Regiment holding the line for several hours.

Turkish officials have commented on statements made by the European Commission President regarding Turkey's geopolitical positioning. They emphasized Turkey's role as a long-standing NATO ally and its significant contributions to the European economy, while also noting its strategic importance. Turkey's status as a NATO and EU member was discussed, with the source noting that Turkey is seen as a valuable country by its neighbors. The country has a strong leader, and energy prices have risen.

The largest social housing project in Turkish history has begun with lottery draws in Istanbul. The individuals were found guilty of defrauding companies attempting to secure tenders for earthquake housing projects. The defendants posed as public officials to facilitate the fraud. He said urban transformation as the primary solution for Istanbul's security and urban needs. The announcement was made during a ceremony in Turkey. The TOKI housing project in Istanbul features units designed at 80 square meters. One-plus-one units are designed at 55 square meters, while two-plus-one units will be 65 or 80 square meters. These units are being constructed by the Housing Development Administration of Turkey (TOKI). Reporters are currently showcasing sample apartments to provide details on the housing quality.

Turkish authorities are expanding tax advantages for institutions operating within the Istanbul Financial Center. The move aims to encourage global corporations to relocate their headquarters to the Istanbul Financial Center. The minister stated that 2026 is designated as a year for reform with comprehensive structural steps on the agenda. The goal is to establish Turkey as a regional finance and trade hub. Additionally, a radical step was taken to reduce corporate tax rates for exporters. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced new tax advantages last Friday. The corporate tax rate for exporters will be reduced from 20% to 9%. The measures aim to alleviate pressure on the labor market in the medium term. The standard corporate tax rate is 25%, but exporters will now benefit from a reduced rate of 14%.

Advanced digital watches are utilizing AI to monitor physiological data, including blood flow and vein vibrations. This technology can provide insights into a person's oxygen levels and other vital metrics.

Artificial intelligence tools are expected to significantly assist doctors in their work, acting as partners rather than competitors. This collaboration aims to improve patient care and streamline medical processes. The integration of AI is seen as a positive development for the healthcare profession.

Artificial intelligence can analyze brain MRIs to predict future health outcomes, potentially warning individuals of risks 5 to 15 years in advance. This technology allows for proactive monitoring and intervention based on AI-driven insights derived from medical imaging.