In person icon Policies and Politics of Syrian Displacement: Findings from Türkiye and Reflections on the Future

Abstract

The Syrian civil war has led to one of the largest displacements in recent history. The international displacement of over 6 million Syrians, in addition to millions of internally displaced tested the sustainability of the international protection system, showcased controversies of the global division of labour in refugee protection, displayed the shortcomings of international funding schemes and policy interventions in various host countries. As the Syrian conflict reaches a turning point with the fall of the Assad regime, this panel brings together researchers whose cumulative work over the past decade offers rich insights into this ongoing crisis: How has Syrian displacement reshaped employment landscapes in neigboring countries? What drives or inhibits onward migration and return in forced displacement contexts? Are Syrian children born and raised in Türkiye a "lost generation" or actors to shape the future of Syria? How have actors in local governance adapted to changing conditions? What does sustainable return look like, given the geopolitical complexities of the current context? What role the returnnees and the diaspora will play in the future of Syria? The disproportionate impact of mass displacement on neighboring countries underscores the need to critically examine the enduring consequences of protracted displacement for various stakeholders in the governance of forced migration. These stakeholders include, but are not limited to, policymakers at the international, national, and local levels, employers, educators, and displaced communities themselves. This panel will explore the impacts of Syrian displacement to Türkiye across key dimensions such as labor markets, (im)mobility aspirations, local municipalities, education and return and reintegration. The discussion will provide a data driven analysis of the past 14 year of displacement. Moreoever, panelists will reflect on the future of Syrian displacement, on lessons learn for other comparable examples, drawing from perspectives on international protection regimes, integration challenges and migration policies. Through data-driven insights and critical reflections, this panel aims to offer a deeper understanding of the Syrian displacement crisis while identifying pathways for addressing the complexities of prolonged displacement situations and conflict resolution prospects.

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