Mobbing Directive Published: What Is Mobbing and How Can It Be Prevented?

The Presidential Circular No. 2025/3 on “Preventing Psychological Harassment (Mobbing) in Workplaces” (“Circular”) was published in the Official Gazette dated March 6, 2025, and numbered 32833. This regulation clarifies the responsibilities of employers while strengthening the complaint mechanisms that protect employees’ rights. With this new Circular, the previous Circular No. 2011/2 has been repealed.

Anti-Mobbing Board Reorganized

Originally established under the 2011/2 Circular, the Anti-Mobbing Board has been restructured under the new directive. It will now be responsible for developing policies, organizing training activities, and conducting awareness campaigns to combat mobbing in workplaces.

Easier Access to Complaint Mechanisms for Employees

Employees subjected to psychological harassment will be able to file complaints through various official channels. These include CİMER, the Grand National Assembly Petition Committee, the ALO 170 hotline, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, the Human Rights and Equality Institution of Türkiye, and the Ombudsman Institution.

Increased Responsibilities for Employers and Managers

The Circular imposes significant responsibilities on employers and managers to prevent psychological harassment in the workplace. Identifying risks that may cause mobbing and developing and implementing preventive and protective policies have become key duties of employers.

Mandatory Awareness and Training Programs

To raise awareness in the fight against mobbing, workplaces will be required to organize training sessions and inform employees about their rights and complaint channels. This aims to prevent victimization by increasing awareness about psychological harassment.

Confidentiality in Investigations and Protection of Institutional Reputation

During investigations into mobbing allegations, protecting personal data and ensuring the confidentiality of victims’ private lives will be prioritized. At the same time, care will be taken to avoid harming the reputation of institutions and organizations through unfounded accusations.

Protective Clauses on Mobbing to Be Added to Collective Labor Agreements

The Circular emphasizes the inclusion of protective clauses against mobbing in collective labor agreements, further strengthening employee rights under labor law.

Psychological Support Services to Be Enhanced

Psychologists working on the ALO 170 hotline will continue to support mobbing victims and provide guidance to employees on how to cope with psychological harassment.

Conclusion

This Circular represents a significant step forward in the fight against psychological harassment in the workplace. It introduces new protections for employees, improves access to complaint mechanisms, increases employer accountability, and mandates awareness efforts. It also prioritizes confidentiality and data protection to ensure the process is carried out fairly and effectively.

Author

Buse Özer