Only 2.1% of Syrian refugees in Türkiye show desire to return home

Ankara University’s Migration Research Center Director professor Murat Erdogan delivered a significant presentation to the Turkish Parliament’s EU Harmonization Committee. Highlighting his research titled “Syrians Barometer,” Erdogan revealed that the Turkish public views Syrian refugees as one of the top three major problems facing the country. Additionally, more than 80% of the Turkish population feels culturally distant from Syrians.

89% of Turkish citizens want Syrians to leave

Professor Erdogan emphasized the increasing tension, stating, “Initially, Syrians were considered ‘cultural brothers,’ but this perception has declined. Living together has not fostered closeness; instead, it has created distance.”

He further noted that 90% of Turks believe that Syrians will not return home after the war, with 89% advocating for their repatriation. Surprisingly, only 2.1% of Syrians in Türkiye express a desire to return to their homeland.

‘Syrians won’t go back voluntarily’

Professor Erdogan stressed the necessity of accepting the permanence of Syrians in Türkiye to develop effective migration policies.

“We have treated them as if they would leave tomorrow, which has hindered the creation of any strategy. The government’s task is challenging, and the opposition is also taking an easy way out,” he remarked. Erdogan argued that expecting a voluntary return of Syrians is unrealistic, emphasizing the need to face this reality.

Brussels should be involved

Professor Erdogan warned of an impending crisis involving Syria.

(Syria’s regime leader Bashar) Assad regaining full control is nearly impossible. We need resources, possibly from the EU. If we are ready to negotiate with Syria, then talks with Brussels should begin. President Erdogan and President Assad should meet in Brussels. Ensuring Syria’s security is crucial for us to withdraw from the region

Prof. Dr. Murat Erdogan

He highlighted the growing risk of the area becoming a terrorist hotspot, threatening both regional and European stability.

Populist exploitation

Professor Erdogan expressed concerns about populist exploitation of the refugee issue, noting that Türkiye’s sudden transition from hosting 58,000 refugees in 2011 to becoming the country with the largest refugee population worldwide has fueled societal anxieties.

“When we underestimate these concerns and fail to address them, populists exploit the situation. My greatest worry is the deterioration of societal goodwill, with even the most compassionate individuals turning against refugees,” he concluded.