The belonging processes of Syrians: The case of Osmaniye

This study aims to explore the processes of belonging among Syrians, focusing on Syrian families and their children, who are referred to as the second generation. Syrians who were forced to migrate to Turkey due to the war and conflicts in Syria have found themselves in a new linguistic, cultural, and societal context. The challenges of migration combined with issues of belonging have brought about various difficulties for Syrians. The study employs qualitative research methods, utilizing a semi-structured interview form comprising 36 questions 23 directed at Syrian families and 13 at second-generation Syrian children. During the fieldwork, interviews were conducted with 13 Syrian families and their children, born in Turkey, using the snowball sampling method. The research examines the belonging processes of Syrian families and their children, aged between 5 and 13 years, covering the preschool to adolescence stages. The findings indicate that the experiences of discrimination and exclusion faced by Syrian families and their children negatively impact their belonging processes. The study reveals that the sense of belonging among second-generation Syrians is influenced by personal and societal factors. Family structure, educational level, social environment, and relationships with the local community play a significant role in shaping these feelings. Keywords: Syrians, forced migration, belonging