Labor migration from Turkey to Denmark 1960-1985

After the Second World War, European countries developed policies to receive workers from different countries to overcome the demographic and economic difficulties brought about by the war. Between 1960 and 1985, there was an intensive labour migration to Europe from different countries, particularly from the citizens of the Republic of Turkey. While migrating to Europe, Turkish workers set out with the expectation of earning higher incomes. In this process, Germany became one of the leading migration destinations, while Denmark became an important receiving country. Denmark accepted Turkish workers, especially in the industrial sector. The migration of Turkish workers did not only provide the need for labor force, but also supported the recovery of the economies for both countries. Over time, Turks have established permanent settlements, taking their families with them. Many Turks who migrated temporarily continued to live in Denmark and some returned to Turkey. For Turkish people who migrated to Denmark, started a new life and got different challenges. Apart from the process of acclimatization of Turkish people in Denmark, factors such as housing, language problems, educational status, and religious differences, made the social integration process for Turkish people difficult. These difficulties between both societies have been solved over time. Turkish people living in Denmark have been kept their own cultural and religious values and established a balance between two cultures. This integration process has simplified the work and social life for Turkish people in Denmark. In this study, the historical process of labour migration is presented. The work life of Turkish people who migrated to Denmark and the differences they encountered were analyzed through living history method. In this research, the daily life of Turks in Denmark was analyzed through interviews. The migration of Turkish people and the life in Denmark has been explained.