UGDD Hosts Consultative Meeting in Ankara for Future Grant Programming
Ankara, January 29 – The International Migration and Solidarity Association (UGDD) convened a significant consultative meeting in Ankara to strategize for upcoming grant programs. The event, held today, gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including members of parliament, embassy representatives, international organizations, public institution officials, and civil society organizations.
During the meeting, policy recommendations were shared 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. A particular emphasis was placed on the reconstruction of livelihoods in regions affected by the February 6th Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes, strengthening economic resilience, and the importance of inclusive employment policies.
“Inclusive Consultations for Future Grant Programming in Turkey” Report Presented
The report titled ‘Inclusive Consultations for Future Grant Programming in Turkey’ was also presented. This comprehensive document addresses employment, voluntary return, and the green economy as interconnected policy areas, offering data-driven and actionable recommendations for decision-makers.
Ahmet Korkutata, Chairman of the UGDD Board of Directors, highlighted the association’s expanded operations. “Our association, originally a Konya-based civil society organization, now operates with active representations in seven provinces across Turkey. Especially after the February 6th earthquakes, we have intensified our efforts in the affected regions to strengthen livelihoods and develop economic opportunities.”
Korkutata further elaborated on the approach, stating, “These efforts are carried out with a local needs-focused approach that encompasses both citizens of the Republic of Turkey and refugee communities. The primary purpose of our gathering here today is to collaboratively 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 concluded by emphasizing the report’s scope: “This report, prepared over approximately a six-month period, addresses employment, voluntary return, and the green economy as directly related policy areas.”
The meeting underscores UGDD’s commitment to fostering sustainable solutions and inclusive policies for migrant communities in Turkey, particularly in the context of post-disaster recovery and economic integration.
