Join the Union
Become part of the voice of culture workers.
Collective Bargaining
Have a say in determining wages and working conditions.
Legal Support
Get free advice from our team of labour law specialists.
Solidarity
Strengthen your struggle alongside thousands of culture workers.
Make Your Voice Heard
Act together to improve working conditions.
Membership Application
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my employer find out I joined the union?
No. Membership in a public servants' union is confidential; your membership is not disclosed to your employer or institution. The union shares member information only with the Ministry of Labour, within the scope of legal obligations.
What conditions do I need to meet to become a member?
You must be working as a permanent or contracted public servant at an institution under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in a municipality's culture unit, or at another public institution in the culture sector. Under Law No. 4688, interns, temporary workers and subcontracted workers are outside the scope.
Can I join through e-Devlet (e-Government)?
No. Under Law No. 4688 on Public Servants' Trade Unions, membership in public-sector unions is completed with a written membership declaration, not through e-Devlet. The declaration is filled out in three copies: one goes to the union, one to your institution, and one stays with you. You can obtain the form from this page or from our local representative.
How are you different from the other culture unions (Kültür Sanat-Sen, Türk Kültür Sanat-Sen)?
Kültür Emek-Sen is not tied to any political party, government or external power. It is run on the principle of fully independent, democratic class unionism; members participate directly in decision-making. In June 2026 we joined the Birleşik Kamu-İş Confederation — a membership that widens our solidarity within the labour movement without touching our independence. Our position at the collective bargaining table is determined by our members' needs.
What rights do I gain as a member?
Collective agreement protection, union legal support (disciplinary investigations, salary disputes), a solidarity network, trainings and seminars, and representation in rights-claim processes. Collective agreements signed for institutions where we are the authorised union cover all members.
What does the union do if I face a disciplinary investigation?
A union representative stands by you during the investigation and supports you through the defence process. If an unjust decision is issued, you can receive legal assistance in appealing to the administrative court. We recommend contacting us as soon as an investigation begins; applications made late may miss the defence deadline.
How much are membership dues?
Public servants' union dues are deducted automatically as a percentage of your salary; Law No. 4688 sets an upper limit. For the current rate, write to iletisim@kulturemeksen.org.tr or call +90 554 560 36 65.