Symbolic boundary work among Syrian refugees: perceived stigmas, responses, and cultural repertoires

Abstract

Although the Turkish public initially welcomed Syrian refugees, signs of hardening boundaries have emerged over time. This study, based on in-depth interviews with Syrian refugees in Istanbul, examines both their perceptions of symbolic boundaries drawn against them by the majority Turkish society and their responses. The Syrian refugees in this study perceive three main stigmas: uncultured, traitor, and freeloader. They respond to these stigmas situationally by assuming individual responsibility, managing their self-presentation, and sometimes choosing not to respond. They also engage in discursive boundary drawing, emphasizing a strong work ethic as a defining characteristic of their group compared to Turkish workers. I argue that the historical cultural repertoire of anti-Arabism inherent in the conception of Turkish nationhood feeds these stigmas, especially in the context of the current economic crisis and political polarization. Meanwhile, the precarious position and fragile status of Syrian refugees constrain their situational responses. Their moral boundary work helps them reassert their dignity and legitimize their presence, but it also hinders potential solidarity with Turkish workers against a governing strategy that systematically exploits both groups.