The urban risk phenomenon: A sociological study in Istanbul

Migration is a sociological phenomenon that begins with individuals and has an impact up to the societal level and requires detailed research. Mass migration affects both migrants and local people in various ways, particularly in areas where wars occur. The Syrian Civil War in 2011 leading to migration from Syria to Turkey, can be considered as an important sociological phenomenon in this regard. Since the arrival of Syrian refugees in Turkey, various risk and socioeconomic problems such as employment, education, and socialization have occurred, and these problems should be addressed effectively. Thus, this thesis attempts to investigate the socioeconomic risk factors that have been experienced by Syrian refugees living in Turkey. To that end, we focused on risk and migration models by reviewing the relevant literature as well as Turkish policies toward mass Syrian immigration. In this regard, the demands and expectations of Syrian refugees concerning the aforementioned policies have been taken into account. In particular, social and economic conditions of Syrian refugees living in Istanbul were examined, and potential social and economic risk factors were discussed in detail. Furthermore, social and economic problems experienced by Syrian refugees and possible proposed solutions have been presented in this thesis. The research was conducted with a qualitative research method and in-depth interviews were made with 26 Syrian refugees living in Istanbul. The target group of the study consisted of individuals from different age and income groups. As such, this thesis addressed various social and economic issues or risk factors such as working conditions, poverty, loss of skilled labour, discrimination and uncertainties in employment, social exclusion, and cultural degeneration experienced by Syrian refugees living in Istanbul.