Dynamics of Migration and Social Cohesion in Turkey

In the 55th session of the Specialized Talks series organized by the ISAR Research Center, we will be hosting Hakan Gülerce.

According to data from the Presidency of Migration Management, Turkey hosts more than 2.5 million Syrians under temporary protection. This reality indicates that migration management and social cohesion processes cannot be considered independently of the Syrian population. Forced migration is a multi-faceted process of encounter that triggers transformation in both host and migrant communities, as migrants bring their cultural, economic, and individual identities to their new settlements. Social cohesion is defined as a voluntary policy based on the principle of reciprocity rather than assimilation. It aims to contribute to the socio-cultural and economic development of both societies while ensuring access to fundamental human rights. A healthy social cohesion process is vital for strengthening social peace and stability, regardless of whether the migrants' status is permanent or temporary.

To achieve a rights-based and sustainable vision of social cohesion, barriers such as language gaps, economic inadequacies, challenges in accessing education, and othering must first be overcome. In this context, it is crucial to implement inclusive education models, develop strong language skills, ensure the active participation of migrants in the formal labor market, and reduce economic inequalities. Furthermore, comprehensive communication strategies are essential to replace exclusionary misconceptions with an evidence-based and humanitarian practice of mutual recognition between local and migrant communities. Ultimately, rights-based social cohesion that upholds human dignity can only be realized through strategic collaboration between public institutions, NGOs, universities, the private sector, and international actors, supported by robust legal frameworks.

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