Migration, Citizenship, and Temporary Protection: Turkey's Role in a Changing Global Landscape

In an increasingly globalized world marked by unprecedented levels of human mobility, the issue of migration has become a central concern for policymakers, scholars, and humanitarian organizations alike. Turkey, a country situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has emerged as a key player in the global migration landscape, hosting a significant population of migrants and refugees.

The Precarious Lives of Syrians: Migration, Citizenship, and Temporary Protection in Turkey (McGill-Queen's Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Book 5)

by Suzan Ilcan

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This comprehensive article delves into the multifaceted topic of migration, citizenship, and temporary protection in Turkey. Drawing upon extensive research and insights from experts in the field, we explore the historical, legal, and socio-economic dimensions of migration in Turkey, with a particular focus on the role of temporary protection mechanisms.

Historical Context: Turkey's Evolving Migration Patterns

Turkey's migration history is intertwined with its geographical position and geopolitical significance. Throughout history, the country has witnessed significant influxes of migrants and refugees from neighboring regions, including the Balkan Peninsula, the Middle East, and the Caucasus.

In recent decades, Turkey has experienced a shift from being a transit country for migrants to becoming a destination country. This transformation is largely attributed to the country's economic growth and political stability, which have attracted both labor migrants and asylum seekers.

Legal Framework: Citizenship and Temporary Protection in Turkey

Turkey's legal framework governing migration is complex and has undergone significant changes over the years. The country's citizenship law, based on the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood),restricts citizenship to individuals who have Turkish parents or have been naturalized through a lengthy and rigorous process.

In the absence of a comprehensive refugee law, Turkey has relied on temporary protection mechanisms to provide assistance and protection to displaced populations. These mechanisms, established through executive decrees, have been implemented in response to specific crises and have varied in terms of scope and duration.

Temporary Protection in Practice: Challenges and Opportunities

Temporary protection provides an essential safety net for displaced populations by offering access to basic services, including healthcare, education, and employment. However, it also presents challenges related to integration, access to permanent status, and the potential for long-term displacement.

In Turkey, temporary protection has been used extensively to respond to the influx of refugees from Syria and other neighboring countries. While it has provided much-needed support, the protracted nature of these crises has raised concerns about the sustainability of temporary protection and the need for more durable solutions.

Socio-Economic Impact: Migration and Development in Turkey

Migration has a profound socio-economic impact on both host and sending countries. In Turkey, migrants have contributed to the country's economic growth by filling labor shortages in various sectors. They have also brought new skills and perspectives, enriching Turkish society and culture.

However, migration can also pose challenges related to integration, social cohesion, and access to public services. It is crucial to strike a balance between managing migration effectively and ensuring the well-being of both migrants and host communities.

Policy Recommendations: Towards Sustainable Migration Management

Based on the research findings and expert insights presented in this article, we propose the following policy recommendations for sustainable migration management in Turkey:

* Strengthen the legal framework for migration, including the development of a comprehensive refugee law that aligns with international standards. * Enhance integration efforts to facilitate the social and economic inclusion of migrants and refugees. * Promote international cooperation and burden-sharing to address the challenges of mass displacement. * Invest in development programs in both host and sending countries to address the root causes of migration.

Migration, citizenship, and temporary protection are complex and interconnected issues that require a multifaceted and humane approach. Turkey's experience in hosting and managing large numbers of migrants and refugees provides valuable lessons for policymakers and scholars around the world.

By understanding the historical, legal, and socio-economic dimensions of migration in Turkey, we can work towards developing more effective and sustainable solutions that benefit both migrants and host communities. The McGill-Queen Refugee Research Publication on "Migration, Citizenship, and Temporary Protection in Turkey" is a significant contribution to this ongoing dialogue, providing essential insights and policy recommendations for shaping the future of migration management.

The Precarious Lives of Syrians: Migration, Citizenship, and Temporary Protection in Turkey (McGill-Queen's Refugee and Forced Migration Studies Book 5)

by Suzan Ilcan

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4363 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	285 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE