The Turkish Parliament is set to debate new draft laws on cyber security and climate change, introducing stricter regulations, emissions targets, and a cybersecurity board.
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| Turkiye’s lawmakers will debate critical cyber security and climate bills, proposing stricter emissions regulations, renewable energy initiatives, and a cybersecurity board. Image Courtesy: DHA |
Ankara, Turkiye — February 23, 2025:
The Turkish Parliament will convene this week to discuss draft legislation on cyber security and climate change, addressing pressing national concerns. The first session is scheduled for Tuesday, with lawmakers set to review key proposals aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure and tackling climate challenges, reads a Daily Sabah post.
The proposed cyber security law outlines the establishment of a cybersecurity board, which will include the president, key ministers, an intelligence chief, and the head of a cybersecurity agency. The bill also promotes the prioritization of locally developed cybersecurity products and services.
Meanwhile, Parliament’s environment committee will examine Turkiye’s first climate bill, a landmark proposal that seeks to impose new environmental regulations. The legislation includes the formation of local climate boards in every province to address regional climate impacts. It also introduces fines of up to TL 5 million (approximately $137,559) for entities failing to submit greenhouse gas emissions reports and penalties for those involved in the use, import, or sale of ozone-depleting substances.
The bill outlines responsibilities for ministries and institutions in achieving Turkiye’s 2053 net-zero emissions target, aligning with the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and climate strategy documents. It promotes the use of renewable energy and clean technologies in line with circular economy principles. Local action plans will be developed to assess risks, while new regulations will expand the zero-waste system. Measures will be introduced to protect ecosystems, manage biodiversity, and ensure sustainable environmental policies.
The law will also establish rules for an Emissions Trading System and carbon credit mechanisms. Businesses will be required to obtain greenhouse gas emission permits, and the Ministry of Trade will oversee a carbon border adjustment mechanism. Climate financing, green investment incentives, and a legal framework for a green taxonomy will also be introduced. The Climate Change Directorate, created by a presidential decree, will have its powers and funding clearly defined.
Beyond climate and cyber security, Parliament’s subcommittees will meet to discuss various issues, including an investigation into the Grand Kartal Hotel fire in Kartalkaya, northern Turkiye. The January 21 disaster claimed 78 lives and left dozens injured. Authorities have arrested the hotel’s owners and officials who had approved its fire safety compliance despite serious concerns. Reports indicate that the hotel remained open during peak holiday periods despite safety warnings, and a fire safety certificate was issued to its restaurant just days before the blaze.
The coming week’s sessions are expected to be pivotal in shaping Turkiye’s digital security policies and environmental strategies while addressing accountability in recent national tragedies.