Turkish Law in EnglishTÜRKİYE
Constitution of the Republic of Türkiye

Article 126: 1. Central administration

PART TWO: FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND DUTIES › CHAPTER TWO: Executive 1. President of the Republic

In terms of central administrative structure, Türkiye is divided into provinces on the basis of geographical situation, economic conditions and the requirements of public services; provinces are further divided into lower administrative districts.

The administration of the provinces is based on the principle of devolution of powers.

Central administrative organisations comprising several provinces may be established to ensure efficiency and coordination in the performance of public services. The functions and powers of these organisations shall be regulated by law.

Original Turkish text

MADDE 126 · 1. Merkezi idare

Türkiye, merkezi idare kuruluşu bakımından, coğrafya durumuna, ekonomik şartlara ve kamu hizmetlerinin gereklerine göre, illere; iller de diğer kademeli bölümlere ayırılır.

İllerin idaresi yetki genişliği esasına dayanır.

Kamu hizmetlerinin görülmesinde verim ve uyum sağlamak amacıyla, birden çok ili içine alan merkezi idare teşkilatı kurulabilir. Bu teşkilatın görev ve yetkileri kanunla düzenlenir.

Text as of 1 October 2026 · Official source (Turkish): mevzuat.gov.tr ↗

Unofficial translation for information only. The Turkish text published in the Official Gazette is the only authoritative version. This page is not legal advice.