The return tendencies of Syrian asylum seekers living in Şanlıurfa

An important dimension of migration is the return of migrant groups to their homeland. Return refers to the re-migration of individuals to their country of origin following voluntary or forced displacement. National and international legal frameworks recognize return as a fundamental right. Voluntary return is regarded as one of the durable solutions to refugee crises at the international level, and this process is shaped by both individual and structural dynamics. The central research question of this study revolves around how Syrian refugees residing in Şanlıurfa perceive the issue of return. Additionally, the study aims to examine the tendencies of Syrian refugees toward voluntary return and to identify the key factors influencing these tendencies. A qualitative research methodology was employed, using a phenomenological research design and in-depth interview techniques. Interviews were conducted with a total of 26 Syrian refugees living in three central districts of Şanlıurfa (Eyyübiye, Haliliye, and Karaköprü), providing valuable insights into their attitudes toward return. According to the research findings, the majority of refugees are reluctant to return due to concerns over security conditions in Syria, economic instability, lack of infrastructure, sectarian and political conflicts, and the breakdown of social ties. However, a group of respondents indicated that they might consider returning if certain conditions were met, such as a regime change, the end of the war, the establishment of security, and the guarantee of fundamental rights. The study highlights that the return processes of refugees are highly complex and multilayered, influenced not only by individual factors but also by national and international policies. The findings suggest that migration management and return policies must be approached in a more inclusive and sustainable manner.