The TBMM Petition Commission has seen a remarkable influx of applications, particularly regarding restoration of the right to revenge , expansion of the KADES application for men’s use, and the promotion of an intermittent fasting nutrition program nationwide. These issues have been highlighted in the nearly 19,531 applications received during the 28th legislative period, spanning from May 15, 2023, to May 30, 2025.
APPLICATION NUMBERS INCREASE BY 63%
The number of applications has surged by 63% compared to the previous legislative term. Applications have primarily focused on working life and retirement , justice services , and environmental management . The majority of applications came from major metropolitan areas such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir .
The commission noted an average daily petition count of 26 , reflecting this 63% increase compared to the last legislative period.
Among the petitions, approximately 4,192 were related to working life and retirement, followed by 3,080 on justice services, and 2,000 concerning environmental management.
HIGHEST NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS FROM ISTANBUL
Istanbul accounted for the highest number of applications, with 4,272 petitions registered. This was followed by 2,211 from Ankara and 1,134 from Izmir. Other significant contributors included Bursa, Antalya, Kocaeli, Konya, Kayseri, Adana, and Mersin , which also saw a considerable number of applications.
The commission’s presidency has reached a decision on 9,406 petitions after deliberation over various meetings. Applications deemed inappropriate or repetitive have been dismissed, while some remain under review.
DIVERSE AND INTRIGUING REQUESTS
The petitions included a variety of fascinating requests . For example, one citizen urged that public employees who smoke should work longer hours compared to non-smokers. Another sought legal action against noisy neighbors to have them evicted from their apartments.
Additionally, there were calls for the nationwide promotion of intermittent fasting programs, illustrating the diverse issues navigated by the commission.
Among the more striking petitions were requests such as:
- Closure of dolphin parks and the release of dolphins back into the ocean.
- Adjustments to the pensions of retirees who upgrade their educational qualifications.
- Traffic fines being determined based on the value of the vehicle.
- Recognition of November 19 as International Men’s Day .
- Women to undertake mandatory public service instead of military service.
- Removal of criminals from family lineage in official registries.
- A national five-year ban on barbecue and picnicking to prevent forest fires.
- Elimination of promissory note regulations.
- Provision of proper nutrition for vegan inmates by authorities.
- Opening up the KADES application for male victims of violence.
- Recognition of a right to revenge for crime victims.
In one notable request, a citizen demanded restrictions on their access to alcoholic beverages, indicating a growing trend towards personal health and safety concerns among the public.
This growing engagement with the legislative process reflects broader societal trends, with citizens increasingly active in voicing their concerns and desires for reform. The variety of issues presented highlights not only the diversity of public opinion but also serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with representing these voices in parliament.
As the commission continues to address these demands, it faces the task of balancing public interest with feasibility. This influx of applications could lead to significant discussions within legislative halls, shaping future policies to address the unique and pressing needs of Turkish society . Ensuring that the voices of citizens are heard will be critical in steering the direction of these legislative efforts.