Do rights migrate with migrants across borders? transferability of social security benefits between Turkey and Germany

Abstract

Bilateral social security agreements (BSSAs) which coordinate the social protection of migrants and the transferability of social security benefits between countries have been established for many years. It is a topic that has gathered increased interest not only among academics but also in policymakers' circles in terms of determining the functioning of these agreements due to few studies and little evidence in this field. This paper analyses the social protection schemes in the migration corridor of Germany-Turkey. First, the concept of portability and the role of the BSSA in the portability process will be analysed. Second, the migration profile and the social insurance profile of Turkey will be presented. Third, the legal framework regulating the social protection of migrants between Germany and Turkey will be evaluated according to the instruments to achieve portability and the rules of coordination. Fourth, findings from in-depth interviews with representatives of the social insurance institution as well as the social security and labour ministry will be assessed. Fifth, in the light of qualitative and quantitative input, this paper will evaluate the bilateral corridor from an economic and social policy angle and will address the lags and gaps in the regulation and actual operation of the BSSA. Finally, policy suggestions to ensure full portability between Germany and Turkey and the role of the BSSA in facilitating circular migration and mobility as well its impact on return decisions will be illustrated. © Peter Lang GmbH.