The Ministry of Family and Social Services plans to expand digital detox camps across all 39 districts of Istanbul by the end of the year as part of efforts to combat technology addiction and strengthen family relationships.
The initiative is being implemented by the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services under the broader family-focused vision announced after 2025 was declared the "Year of the Family." Authorities have also designated the period from 2026 to 2035 as the "Decade of Family and Population."
The camps aim to encourage families to spend quality time together away from digital devices while promoting healthier communication and stronger social connections.
One of the latest camps was organized at the Marmaracık Youth Camp in the Rumelifeneri neighborhood of Sarıyer on the European side of Istanbul. Surrounded by nature, families participated in a full day of recreational, cultural and sporting activities without the use of mobile phones, tablets or computers.
Participants took part in traditional games such as tug-of-war, sack races, egg-carrying competitions, musical chairs and dodgeball, alongside sports activities including archery, canoeing, volleyball, basketball, football, table tennis and foosball.
