Migration and Integration Policies in Türkiye

Abstract

Türkiye, a country with significant population movements, is already a critical hub for many migrant mobility. In this study, Türkiye's immigration policy and integration process, which has developed under the influence of global, political, economic, and social conditions, are discussed. The study focuses on Türkiye's historical migration trends and integration policies, drawing attention to the importance of migration in changing population size and characteristics. As a spatial movement, migration affects social, cultural, and economic aspects, reshaping both migrants and host societies. The history of migration in the Republic of Turkey includes various waves of migration from population exchanges to the recent Syria studies. In this process, Türkiye has the characteristics of being a receiving, sending and transit country in migration movements. In addition to socio-economic concerns, Türkiye has been managing the integration process of the refugee population from Syria since 2011. The determinants that accelerate the integration process, such as the age group of the migrant population, common cultural and linguistic characteristics, and access to the labor market, are planned to support the preservation of social balance. This study, which aims to evaluate Türkiye's responses to this population movement and the policies that shape refugee integration, also reveals the different impacts of various waves of migration to Türkiye on the country and social structure. In conclusion, it emphasizes the importance of migration policies for the regulation of migrant movements.