QERS/WAN – Citizens and shopkeepers in Wan and Qers, struggling to make ends meet, emphasized that the only way out of the economic crisis is through a process that leads to peace.
The deepening economic crisis in Turkey continues to affect daily life. In the provinces of Wan and Qers, local business owners and residents say they can no longer afford basic needs, pointing to the need for peace and stability as the only real solution.
Mehmet Acar, who works as a shoe shiner, said he survives only by working every day: “I live off my shoeshine box. I only receive a 65+ pension. My rent is 2,150 TL, even though the house is barely livable. Half of my pension goes to rent, the rest to bills. If I can’t work, neighbors help me out.”
Hüsnü Yardımcıel, a minibus driver, highlighted how rising diesel prices have affected his income: “A 25-kilometer trip still costs 60 TL for passengers, but fuel keeps getting more expensive. We want peace. Peace would bring prosperity and help the economy too. But for that, real steps must be taken.”
Seyithan Çaği, a retiree supporting a six-person household, said: “My pension is 14,460 TL, but rent alone is 15,000 TL. Without help from my children, I couldn't survive. People are desperate.”
Mehmet Çekiner pointed out the price inconsistencies in local markets: “Prices vary even within a 100-meter stretch. Apples are 25 TL here, but 85 TL just ahead. There’s no oversight. I’m 65, I get a pension, but it's not enough. My gas bill is 5,000 TL. I hope peace will bring economic recovery.”
Tour guide and shopkeeper Dündar Şenaslan said tourist activity has plummeted: “Even when tourists do come, they don’t shop anymore. Utility bills are too high. Product transport costs are rising due to fuel prices. We need systemic change. I hope peace comes—only then will the economy improve.”
University student Derya Camışçıoğlu described how difficult it is for youth: “Students can’t survive. People work all day but can’t meet basic needs or enjoy life. Economic recovery depends on the success of the current process.”
Rabiya Özyer, a mother of five, shared her frustration over unemployment and poverty: “Even when my children find jobs, they don’t earn minimum wage. We vote to change the system, but nothing changes. Young people are leaving the country. Owning a home or car is a dream now. They talk about peace on TV, but we don’t see it. We want peace. Let the bloodshed end, and let everyone live happily and safely.”