ANKARA – The International Migration and Solidarity Association (UGDD) held a consultative meeting in Ankara to discuss future grant programming. The event, which took place on January 28, 2026, focused on developing inclusive policies for migrants and host communities in Turkey.
Key Stakeholders Gather for Policy Discussions
The meeting, organized by UGDD, saw the participation of a diverse group of stakeholders, including members of parliament, embassy representatives, international organizations, public institutions, and non-governmental organizations. This broad representation underscored the collaborative approach taken to address complex issues related to migration and development in Turkey.
Discussions at the meeting centered on critical policy recommendations concerning the access of Syrians living in Turkey to the labor market, their intentions for voluntary return, and their potential contributions to the green economy. These areas were identified as crucial for fostering sustainable integration and economic resilience.
Rebuilding Livelihoods in Earthquake-Affected Regions
A significant portion of the talks focused on the efforts to rebuild livelihoods in regions affected by the February 6 Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes. The importance of strengthening economic resilience and implementing inclusive employment policies in these areas was strongly emphasized. UGDD’s work in these regions has been particularly intense, focusing on developing economic opportunities for both Turkish citizens and refugee communities, based on local needs.
Comprehensive Report Offers Data-Driven Recommendations
The meeting also served as a platform for the presentation of the report titled ‘Inclusive Consultations for Future Grant Programming in Turkey’. This comprehensive report examines employment, voluntary return, and the green economy as interconnected policy areas. It provides data-driven and actionable recommendations for decision-makers, aiming to inform and guide future policy interventions.
UGDD’s Expanding Role and Mission
Ahmet Korkutata, Chairman of the UGDD Board of Directors, highlighted the association’s growth and mission. “Our association, as a Konya-based civil society organization, is currently operating with active representations in 7 provinces across Turkey,” Korkutata stated. “Especially after the February 6 earthquakes, we have intensified our efforts in strengthening livelihoods and developing economic opportunities in the earthquake-affected regions.”
Korkutata further explained the rationale behind the meeting: “These efforts are carried out with a local needs-focused approach that includes both citizens of the Republic of Turkey and refugee communities. The main purpose of our gathering here today is to collectively evaluate the experience and data we have gained in the field, within a framework that will make a meaningful contribution to policy-making processes.”
He emphasized the report’s significance, noting, “This report, prepared over approximately a 6-month period, addresses employment, voluntary return, and the green economy as directly interrelated policy areas.” The report is expected to serve as a vital resource for policymakers in shaping future strategies for migration and development in Turkey.
