No, corporal punishment against children, including spanking, is prohibited under Turkey’s 2021 Child Protection Law (Law No. 5395) and the 2022 amendments aligning with the Istanbul Convention. Courts interpret physical discipline as a form of violence, risking criminal liability under Articles 86–89 of the Turkish Penal Code. The Ministry of Family and Social Services enforces compliance through child protection units.
Key Regulations for Spanking Your Child in Turkey
- Prohibition under Law No. 5395: Article 4 mandates “child-friendly” upbringing, explicitly banning physical punishment in all settings, including homes.
- Criminal Liability: Violations may trigger prosecution under Articles 86–89 of the Turkish Penal Code, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for aggravated harm.
- Enforcement by Local Authorities: The Ministry of Family and Social Services’ provincial directorates investigate complaints via child protection boards, collaborating with provincial governors to monitor compliance.