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Refugees are individuals who have fled their homes due to war, persecution, violence, extreme poverty, famine, or natural disasters. Türkiye is currently the nation hosting the most refugees in the world. According to UNHCR, Türkiye is home to approximately 3.6 million refugees. Recently, anti-refugee sentiment has been increasing in Türkiye. This article examines the reasons behind this trend, the government's response, and the issue of refugee accommodation.
Most of the Syrian refugees currently residing in Türkiye fled their homeland due to the protracted civil war spanning 13 years. Initially, they were warmly welcomed due to the open-door policy of the Turkish government and were provided with opportunities to establish new homes. However, as the Turkish economy sharply declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, these refugees began to encounter heightened discrimination.
Concerns about the economic burden and social issues such as crime have led to opposition against Syrian refugees in Türkiye. Last month, following a Syrian man’s sexual assault of his 7-year-old cousin, local residents engaged in acts of collective violence. This violence has persisted, including incidents of throwing stones at the homes and shops of Syrian refugees and setting cars on fire. In response, President Erdoğan expressed deep concern and urged restraint from violence. The Interior Minister also condemned these actions, stating that "our faith and cultural values do not tolerate xenophobia." Despite stringent measures to curb the violence, it has spread to other areas and has escalated into a political dispute over refugee policy.
As a result, Syrian refugees are experiencing significant anxiety in Türkiye, uncertain of when they might be deported due to the rising anti-refugee sentiment. One Syrian refugee remarked, "In Türkiye, we only receive temporary protection, and even if we settle here, we can never become citizens of Türkiye."
Refugees are not exceptional individuals; they are ordinary people in perilous situations who require protection. By recognizing refugees as ordinary individuals, we can address the refugee issue more effectively and overcome prejudice, fear, hatred, and discrimination. It is hoped that adequate support and protection measures for Syrian refugees in Türkiye will be implemented, supported by active efforts from both Turkish and Syrian authorities, as well as assistance from the international community.
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