Syrian refugees between turkey and Europe: Analysis of Syrians moving or staying

Syrian refugee crisis has led to millions seeking refuge in neighbouring countries, including Jordan, Lebanon, and Türkiye. This thesis examines the factors that impact Syrian refugees' decisions to either remain in Türkiye or seek asylum elsewhere. By analysing both push factors (those driving them away from their first host country) and pull factors (those attracting them to other destinations and host countries), we gain insights into the dynamics of their behaviour. The study draws on data from literature, surveys, and interviews with Syrian refugees in Türkiye. This thesis explores the key push and pull factors influencing the decisions of skilled and unskilled Syrian individuals in Türkiye and neighboring countries between 2015 and 2020 to undertake a second migration journey to Europe and the West or to remain in Türkiye. Through qualitative interviews and quantitative analysis, the study investigates the impact of pre-conflict skills, mobility patterns, academic and job opportunities, gender dynamics, social and human capital, and potential restrictions faced by refugees. The findings shed light on how these factors shape refugees' choices and experiences. The qualitative study, semi-structured interviews with 15 participants, reveals that challenges such as language barriers, limited work opportunities, educational obstacles, and restrictive policies in Türkiye, Jordan, and Lebanon acted as push factors for skilled Syrians to seek better prospects in the West. Conversely, factors like language support, employment opportunities, education facilitation, and inclusive policies in Western countries served as pull factors. Social and human capital, as well as personal attributes like flexibility and courage, played a crucial role in the integration process for those who moved. The quantitative analysis, an online questionnaire, conducted with 100 Syrian individuals residing in Türkiye, examines the reasons behind the preference to stay in Türkiye rather than migrate to the West. The results indicate a strong relationship between having a current job in Türkiye and the decision to remain, while the similarity of culture and tradition between Türkiye and Syria was not a significant factor. Moral and religious concerns about the future of families and children in the West emerged as a notable consideration for some respondents. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of multiple migration flows and the decision-making processes of Syrian refugees, offering valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and host countries alike. Keywords: Syrians, Skilled, Refugees, Migrants, Under Temporary Protection Individuals, Conflict, Education, Economic, Culture, Religion.