Turkey Drops to 18th in Global Population Rankings, Demographics Signal Structural Shifts

TÜİK released the 2026 World Population Statistics. Turkey, with 86.9 million people, ranks 18th out of 194 countries and constitutes 1% of the global population. The child population rate stands at 24.8%, below the world average of 29.3%, while the youth population rate is 14.8%, slightly under the global 15.6% average. The elderly population rate at 11.1% is just above the world average of 10.4%.

Demographic Trends and Macroeconomic Implications

Turkey's population size, though not among the top three globally, holds strategic importance for economic planning. Lower youth and child population ratios signal potential long-term labor market pressures and a shift toward adult-dominated workforce dynamics.

■Child population rate (24.8%) below world average (29.3%).

■Youth population rate (14.8%) slightly under world average (15.6%).

■Elderly population rate (11.1%) marginally above world average (10.4%).

■Turkey exceeds EU-27 average in child population ratio.

Markets should focus on the implications of aging demographics, particularly in pension systems and healthcare spending. The youth deficit may also reshape labor market demand and fiscal priorities.