Migrant women's shelters: A comparative analysis of Germany and Türkiye

The intersection of migration and domestic violence is a crucial field in migration studies, however, some aspects have not yet been addressed. This study analyzes the role of women's shelters in supporting immigrant women in Germany and Türkiye through an analysis of the historical process, national and international policies, and institutional frameworks. The study takes intersectional theory as its theoretical underpinning, which argues that women are oppressed by not only gender but through the intersection of multiple identities, such as migration statuses. This theory also discusses the challenges that immigrant women experience with violence, as well as the challenges faced by intersecting identities in political and structural contexts. The thesis aims to understand the differences between the practices in Germany and Türkiye and to analyze the protection mechanisms immigrant women have against domestic violence. Thus, the qualitative comparative analysis method is used to compare women's shelters for immigrant women in Germany and Türkiye. Within the scope of the method, historical time, legal protection, the status of shelters, and the GREVIO reports on the Istanbul Convention were identified as factors. In Germany, the needs of immigrant women in women's shelters are more often addressed in the context of intersectionality. There are specialized services and efforts to address language barriers and special needs. However, it is not yet possible to talk about an intersectional approach for shelters in Türkiye. Although both countries have measures to address domestic violence, there are bureaucratic barriers and inclusion gaps for immigrant women in Turkish shelters. In this context, by positioning women's shelters as key protection centers, this research contributes to a comparative debate between Germany and Türkiye on the provision of inclusive and accessible support services for immigrant women.