Exploring the drivers of return among Syrian refugees living in Gaziantep to their home in North Syria

This thesis delves into the complex phenomenon of return migration among Syrian refugees, specifically focusing on Türkiye, particularly the city of Gaziantep and the northwest region of Syria. Grounded in the historical and political context of the Syrian conflict, this study aims to understand the motivations, experiences, and challenges faced by refugees seeking to return to their home country. Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, the thesis employs Network Theory of Migration, Return Migration Theory, and the Theory of Planned Behavior to analyze the dynamics of return migration and inform potential intervention strategies. The study comprises four main chapters. The first chapter examines the motivations of refugees residing in Gaziantep, exploring the interplay of economic, social, and political factors influencing their decisions regarding return. The second chapter investigates the experiences of returnees in North-West Syria in areas supported by the Turkish Government, focusing on the myriad challenges they encounter and the support systems available to them, including considerations of local governance, healthcare, education, security, and psychological well-being. The third chapter delves into the push and pull factors influencing return migration, examining external influences, such as host country policies, and internal factors, such as family ties and community networks. Finally, the fourth chapter evaluates the quality of services available to refugees in Gaziantep City, drawing lessons from case studies in other countries to identify best practices and areas for improvement. This thesis aims to provide valuable insights into the broader discourse on forced migration and humanitarian interventions by providing a nuanced understanding of Syrian refugee return migration. Through its comprehensive analysis of the factors shaping refugees' decisions and their experiences during the return process, the study seeks to inform policymakers, practitioners, and scholars in refugee studies and migration management. Ultimately, the goal is to facilitate more effective and sustainable solutions to address the challenges faced by Syrian refugees seeking to rebuild their lives in their home country.