Panel details

Panel organiser(s) will be presenting	In-Person / Online
Number of paper presentations	4
Location	Istanbul

Abstract

Amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics and domestic policy debates, the future of Syrian refugee programming in Türkiye remains a critical humanitarian concern. This roundtable aims to foster an open, inclusive dialogue between Syrian refugee-led organisations (RLOs) and Turkish civil society organisations (CSOs) to reflect on existing gaps in and explore participatory approaches to refugee governance and voluntary return.

A key issue underpinning current policy discourse is the limited representation of Syrian RLOs in national-level humanitarian coordination platforms in Türkiye. Despite being central to the lived experience and long-term prospects of displacement-affected communities, Syrian-led organisations remain underrepresented in shaping refugee policy frameworks. This panel addresses the urgent need to include Syrian civil society actors in decision-making processes and explore meaningful pathways for collaboration between Turkish and Syrian organisations.

The discussion will bring together representatives from both Syrian RLOs and Turkish CSOs to share operational challenges, the impact of the 2023 earthquake, reflect on the current state of Syrian refugee programming, and co-develop policy and practice recommendations. Particular attention will be paid to the evolving Turkish government stance on new protection mechanisms, and the implications for both refugee rights and sustainable return programming.

By modelling equitable collaboration and centring displaced voices, this panel seeks to provide concrete action points for a more inclusive, effective, and rights-based humanitarian architecture in Türkiye — where host and refugee-led organisations co-create durable solutions and methodologies toward meaningful refugee participation.

Paper presentations