Strategic Management of Street Animals in Turkey: Minister Çiftçi's 2026 Target and Metropolitan Integration

Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi visited the Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Temporary Animal Care Center, highlighting the new approach following the 2024 legal regulation that emphasizes collection, treatment, and sterilization of street animals. He noted that 6,500 animals are currently sheltered in natural habitats and facilities, with 12 veterinary doctors and 85 staff members managing the 180-decare area. Çiftçi emphasized that 92.35% of Turkey's stray animals are now protected, aiming to complete the process by the end of 2026.

Legal Framework Evolution and Process Transformation

■The 2024 regulation shifted from releasing animals into natural habitats to a 'collect, treat, sterilize' model.

■The system was implemented in 51 provincial administrations and expanded to 30 metropolitan municipalities in July 2025.

■Activities in Kocaeli aim to enhance animal welfare and urban safety.

Statistical Progress and Operational Capacity

■6,500 animals are housed in natural habitats and shelters across 180 decares.

■12 veterinary doctors and 85 employees provide services.

■Over 1,000 animals have been adopted so far.

Markets and the public sector are drawing attention through investments in animal welfare and improved service quality. Such policies particularly enable social responsibility projects in metropolitan areas. However, transparency in budget allocations and sustainability will be crucial in the coming period.