The long-standing Syrian civil war has forced nearly 6 million refugees to flee their homes in search of safety. Turkey, which shares a southern border with Syria, has been home to nearly 3.7 million of these refugees since the conflict began in 2011. As the war slowly comes to a close, and with political shifts occurring within Turkey, these refugees now face an unavoidable decision: should they return to their homes in Syria, or seek to integrate into Turkish society permanently?
The return of Syrian refugees to their homeland has become increasingly attractive due to the unique political context. With the discovery of oil reserves in the northeast In Syria, the country’s economic potential has garnered global attention. Meanwhile in Turkey, the escalating currency troubles, increasing instability in political, economic, and social spheres have raised concerns among people. As the country’s government faces criticism for its handling of the economy, the current refugee crisis appears even more worrying.
For many refugees that have lived in Turkey for years, the idea of returning to Syria is met with unease, as the fear of returning to violence, destruction, and poverty outweighs the desire to go home. Many have built lives in Turkey, obtaining work, education, and raising families. As the economic slowdown continues across the country, it raises questions about whether refugees are better off perusing resettlement or returning home.
Integration into Turkish society and the prospect of citizenship presents a clear option for refugees. However, this comes with its own set of challenges, including language barriers, social isolation, and cultural difference. Access to public services and a sense of belonging have made it difficult for these families to adapt. Some refugees have found success, either through entrepreneurship, or by securing high-skilled jobs and furthering their education in Turkey.
To make an informed decision, the refugees need assistance and guidance. Access to resources, information, and support systems can help them navigate through this tough decision. This task requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving a combination of government policies, support systems, NGOs, and humanitarian establishments.
Each family, like each person is unique, with different priorities, circumstances, and backgrounds. Some refugees are now contemplating the repercussions on their livelihoods, and future generations. For some, the cultural nostalgia and attachment to their ancestral land take precedence, while for others it is securing their children’s education, and financial security in an uncertain future.
As the world watches the evolving situation in Syria and Turkey, it must continue to support refugees in making this critical life decision. The international community must be proactive in addressing the political, economic, and social repercussions tied to the Kurdish-controlled northeast Syria and Turkey. The refugee crisis must be viewed with added urgency and cooperation, taking into account the role of the political changes both inside Syria and Turkey and integration in host countries like Turkey.
