Syrian refugees in Turkey: Towards integration policies

Abstract

The presence of refugees, particularly of Syrians in Turkey, will not only require a long-term solution but also a recognition of the long-term economic, social, and political responsibility of supporting this community. Dealing with refugees in Turkey at present is not a question of halting the influx of refugees and reversing their movement, but requires practical measures aimed at providing them with better settlement and integration opportunities. This article focuses on how the Turkish asylum regime has responded to the issues surrounding Syrian refugee integration by creating a number of new legal and administrative tools over the last few years. We argue that well-established, comprehensive integration policies are needed to cater to migrants and refugees, especially to provide for their immediate need for education, health, and housing.