The problems faced by Syrian children in working places in Şanlıurfa

The migration process closely affects many social groups. Children, who are one of these social groups, experience some difficulties brought by the migration process. Some fundamental problems such as being cut off from education and being forced to work are some of the negative effects of migration on children. One dimension of the Syrian migration that has taken place since 2011 is undoubtedly children. This study deals with the difficulties experienced by Syrian children in working life in Şanlıurfa. The aim of the research is to reveal the problems experienced by children in working life. The study is field research conducted in Şanlıurfa using the qualitative research method. The research was carried out between May 2021 and August 2022. In the field study, individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 43 people in Haliliye and Eyyübiye. The data obtained based on the findings consisting of individual interviews and field notes were analysed by content analysis method. According to the field findings of the research conducted in Şanlıurfa, working Syrian children in the research group are children of school age. It has been seen that the families of the children interviewed do not have a regular income and generally live in rented houses. Although there are many different reasons for children to participate in working life, it can be said that the main reason is to cope with the economic difficulties caused by migration. The education process of working children is interrupted and some children drop out of school due to being in working life for a long time. The parents of the children interviewed in the sampling have low levels of education. Children are exposed to labor exploitation with low wages and long working hours, and the unfavorable conditions in workplaces and outdoor workplaces lead to health problems in many aspects, both physical and mental. This situation paves the way for irreparable damage in the future. As a result, problems arising from migration and war conditions victimizes children in many aspects.