Turkey

Overview

Türkiye is home to one of the world’s largest refugee populations. Despite legal reforms, economic pressures, social tensions, and the aftermath of the 2023 earthquakes have worsened conditions for refugees and host communities alike.

Country Facts

• Total Population: 84 million (2023 est.)
• Refugees and Migrants Hosted: 3.6 million
• Syrian Refugees: 3.2 million (under temporary protection)
• Other Nationalities: 222,000 (from Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, etc.)
• Legal Framework: Law on Foreigners and International Protection (2013); Temporary Protection Regulation (2014)
• Primary Challenges: Social tensions, integration barriers, economic strain, earthquake aftermath

Crisis

Türkiye became a central refuge during the Syrian civil war, establishing a temporary protection framework for over 3.2 million Syrians. It also hosts tens of thousands from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Iran, and serves as a transit point to Europe. Despite access to healthcare and education, many refugees work informally. The February 2023 earthquakes displaced thousands more, and economic hardship has fueled discrimination. Türkiye adheres to the 1951 Convention with a geographical limitation, granting full refugee status only to Europeans; EU support remains crucial for aid funding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Türkiye host so many refugees?
Türkiye borders Syria and became a primary destination for those fleeing regional conflicts, especially the Syrian civil war.

What is "temporary protection"?
A legal status under which primarily Syrian refugees can access basic services without full refugee status.

What is Türkiye’s stance under international refugee law?
Türkiye is party to the 1951 Convention but limits full refugee status to Europeans; others receive temporary or conditional protection.

How did the 2023 earthquakes affect refugees?
The quakes displaced thousands more and worsened shelter, healthcare, and basic service conditions for refugees.

What is the EU–Türkiye Deal?
A 2016 agreement wherein the EU funds refugee care in Türkiye in exchange for managing migration flows and accepting returns.