As part of the official visit to Baghdad, a meeting was held with Sayyid Ammar al-Hakim, Leader of the Iraqi National Wisdom Movement (Al-Hikma) and Head of the National State Forces Alliance.During the meeting, key topics were addressed, including the challenges faced by migration and diaspora communities, regional policies aimed at improving humanitarian living conditions, and the ongoing development of Türkiye-Iraq relations. Both sides reaffirmed their shared belief in the vital importance of regional peace, solidarity, and collaborative efforts. The visit concluded with expressions of gratitude to Mr. al-Hakim for his warm hospitality and engagement.

Delivering the closing speech of the forum, Mehmet Sabit Göktaş, the Academy Coordinator of the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, stated that the legal, logistical, economic, social, and humanitarian dimensions of safe, voluntary, dignified, and sustainable return were discussed comprehensively in the panels and workshops held on July 21-22.
<div class="gdv-forum-ozet">
Emphasis on Regional Cooperation and Shared Responsibility
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/176/480272882776.jpg" alt="480272882776.jpg" />
Expressing that the evaluations of participants from different countries and institutions once again demonstrated that regional migration mobility is not a single country's issue but a regional matter requiring shared responsibility and strong cooperation, Göktaş summarized the workshop outputs under the following headings: reducing legal and bureaucratic obstacles to return, strengthening cross-border coordination, and ensuring regular data sharing between countries.
Stating that increasing employment in return areas, developing sustainable development models, and creating regional financing mechanisms were considered among the priority needs, Göktaş relayed that the necessity of protecting social cohesion and local stability after return, securing property rights, and strengthening psychosocial support mechanisms was also emphasized.
Expressing that establishing permanent cooperation networks among public institutions, non-governmental organizations, academia, and research centers will contribute to managing future migration mobilities more effectively, Göktaş concluded his speech by emphasizing that a dignified return begins not at the border gate, but with a safe home, an open school door, a steady job, and a life without fear.
Hoping that the information shared and the solution proposals developed at the forum will turn into applicable policies and permanent cooperation models, Göktaş wished the closing to be not an end, but the beginning of new steps to be taken for a common future.
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In the Special Session on Regional Migration Management Experience held within the scope of the Regional Migration and Return Forum, institutional experiences and field practices of regional countries regarding migration management were shared.
In the session moderated by Barış Toprak Şahin, Head of Diplomacy Management at the Migration and Diaspora Foundation; Hamza Taşdelen, Vice President of Turkish AFAD; Muhammed Basel Kırşanu, Director General of Turkey Relations at the Syrian Ministry of Disasters; Dr. Samer Haddara, Secretary General of the Council of Ministers Committee Responsible for the Syrian Displaced Persons File in Lebanon; and Dr. Kawther Al-Gharban, President of the Iraqi Enki Center for Strategic Studies shared their views.
<div class="gdv-forum-ozet">
AFAD Vice President Taşdelen: Wherever in the world someone is in need, we try to lend a helping hand
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/174/440739828263.jpg" alt="440739828263.jpg" />
Summarizing the process Turkey has conducted since 2011 in three periods, AFAD Vice President Hamza Taşdelen stated that in the first period, efforts were made to cope with mass migration. In this context, he expressed that 26 temporary accommodation centers were established across 10 cities, hosting over 300 thousand Syrians.
Referring also to the briquette house project born out of field practice, Taşdelen said that the work initiated with a target of 20 thousand resulted in the completion of 116 thousand briquette houses, which prevented the constant displacement of the population in the region and enabled the planning of school, health, and infrastructure services. He also noted that aid is regularly delivered to the field via the logistics center established in Çobanbey.
Taşdelen drew attention to the fact that return should be evaluated as a concept encompassing not only the return to Syria from neighboring countries, but also the return of internally displaced persons within Syria to their own cities. Reminding that 252 million people in 55 countries worldwide are in need of urgent assistance, Taşdelen expressed that AFAD acts with an approach that "tries to lend a helping hand wherever in the world someone is in need."
Dr. Al-Gharban: Social trust was decisive in Iraq's experience
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/174/441138010034.jpg" alt="441138010034.jpg" />
Dr. Kawther Al-Gharban, President of the Iraqi Enki Center for Strategic Studies, stated that Iraq's experience was predominantly shaped around internal migration, expressing that the country faced a heavy wave of forced displacement due to Al-Qaeda and ISIS terrorism.
Emphasizing that migration management is a security issue as much as an organizational issue, Al-Gharban said that the state must strike a balance between national security and the safety of human life. She stated that in the model pursued in Iraq, involving reputable actors in society alongside state institutions made the crisis manageable.
Regarding the status of Syrians in Iraq, Al-Gharban relayed that no nationality-based discrimination is practiced in the country; Syrians have the right to travel and work, and Syrian doctors and healthcare workers can serve in hospitals. Expressing that the experiences of Turkey and Iraq are distinct yet mutually enriching, Al-Gharban stated that evaluating both experiences together would contribute to regional policies.
Dr. Haddara: An accurate migration policy cannot be produced without accurate data
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/174/441499878284.jpg" alt="441499878284.jpg" />
Dr. Samer Haddara, Secretary General of the Council of Ministers Committee Responsible for the Syrian Displaced Persons File in Lebanon, stated that the government formed at the beginning of 2025 placed the issue directly on its agenda by establishing a committee at the ministerial level. He relayed that the plan prepared with international partners aims to encourage voluntary return through financial support, administrative conveniences, and fee and tax exemptions.
Haddara expressed that there are currently approximately 800 thousand Syrians in Lebanon, while around 600 thousand people have returned to Syria; as of July 2026, approximately 100 thousand students are enrolled in schools. He stated that these data demonstrate that migration management is not possible without taking education policies into account.
Drawing attention to the importance of accessing quality data, Haddara said that statistics obtained at the national level can contradict data from international institutions, and therefore data sharing between institutions and states needs to be strengthened. Exemplifying that there are families wishing to return to the same city from different countries, Haddara called for the establishment of a joint regional platform so that the service and infrastructure needs generated by these returns can be planned in advance.
Emphasizing that returnees should be evaluated not merely as individuals in need, but along with the professional skills and economic potential they carry, Haddara stated that the success of the process will be the success of not only Syria but the entire region, concluding his speech with the words "The stability of Syria is the stability of the region."
Kırşanu: This is a second migration; a voluntary and dignified return
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/174/441758947278.jpg" alt="441758947278.jpg" />
Muhammed Basel Kırşanu, Director General of Turkey Relations at the Syrian Ministry of Disasters, stated that the ongoing process has the character of a new migration, expressing that the first migration occurred under forced conditions, whereas what is being discussed today means returning to the homeland voluntarily.
Emphasizing that return must be within a safe, voluntary, and humanitarian framework, Kırşanu stated that the Syrian government primarily tries to support the education and health sectors. He relayed that debris removal, clearance of mines and unexploded ordnance, and the re-establishment of critical infrastructure are the main challenges ahead.
Expressing that they consider securing livelihoods critical for returning families to build a sustainable life, Kırşanu said that the decree issued in this direction aims to create the infrastructure and environment to facilitate return. Emphasizing that returnees are a gain for the country, Kırşanu stated that this human capital will be utilized in reconstruction and development processes.
It was also expressed in the session that Turkish institutions such as AFAD, the Presidency of Migration Management, TİKA, YTB, Yunus Emre Institute, and Maarif Foundation carry out coordinated efforts towards the reconstruction of Syria, and an increase in returns was observed around newly constructed schools, demonstrating the decisive role of education and infrastructure in return.
Presentation of appreciation to the contributing speakers
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/174/441959780421.jpg" alt="441959780421.jpg" />
Following the panel, Muhammed Ali Özoğul, Board Member of the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, presented thank-you gifts to Hamza Taşdelen, Muhammed Basel Kırşanu, Dr. Samer Haddara, and Dr. Kawther Al-Gharban for their valuable contributions to the forum.
<div style="text-align: center; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a style="background-color: #029eb1; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 28px; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 16px; display: inline-block; transition: background-color 0.3s;" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhnNmieY1yg" target="_blank"> 5th Session Live Stream Recording </a></div>
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In the Special Session on Sharing Migration Experience of Regional Countries held within the scope of the Regional Migration and Return Forum, the migration management experiences of regional countries were addressed from a comparative perspective.
In the session moderated by Dr. Ravza Kavakcı Kan, Member of Parliament for the 27th Term; Syrian Member of Parliament Azzam Hancı, UNHCR Deputy Representative in Turkey Daniela Carmela Cicchella, Director General of Syrian Labor at the Lebanese Ministry of Labor Samar Assi, and Dean of the Faculty of Political Science at the University of Baghdad Prof. Dr. Al-Bedewi shared their views.
Referring to current data at the opening of the session, Kavakcı Kan relayed that as of the beginning of July 2026, there were 2 million 245 thousand people under temporary protection in Turkey, and that approximately 1.5 million people returned to Syria in the 2016-2026 period.
<div class="gdv-forum-ozet">
Hancı: The reconstruction process requires a long-term effort
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/175/456280268799.jpg" alt="456280268799.jpg" />
Based on international reports, Syrian Member of Parliament Azzam Hancı stated that approximately 14 million Syrians were subjected to internal and external migration, and that the reconstruction of the country requires a very large-scale investment. Relaying that, according to a 2025 UNDP report, half of the infrastructure is destroyed, Hancı expressed that for this reason he does not expect returns to occur in a short time and collectively.
Drawing attention to the presence of Syrians who have been educated in well-established universities around the world and work in large companies, Hancı said that if this human capital returns to the country and participates in the reconstruction process, a significant transformation would be possible. He emphasized that establishing a strategic integration plan among regional countries would create a strong synergy.
Particularly pointing out the decisive role of education in return, Hancı relayed that the lack of universities during the war period was identified as one of the main reasons for migration, thousands of students were graduated from universities established upon this, and today this work is continued with new universities. He stated that during the conflict period, attempts were made not to interrupt education through facilities such as mobile schools, tent schools, and underground classrooms, and accelerated programs were applied for students who lost years.
Hancı also touched upon the fact that children who stayed abroad for a long time have weakened ties with their mother tongue and culture, stating that when families decide to return, children struggle with academic Arabic; therefore, language and culture programs carried out by non-governmental organizations are critical in terms of strengthening the sense of identity and belonging.
Cicchella: Voluntariness is essential, coercion does not yield sustainable results
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/175/45691990569.jpg" alt="45691990569.jpg" />
UNHCR Deputy Representative in Turkey Daniela Carmela Cicchella relayed that after December 2024, 1.9 million internally displaced people returned to their former settlements and 1.7 million Syrian refugees returned to their country; however, approximately 10 million Syrians are still outside the country.
Stating that a large-scale return is not expected in the short term, and in the long term the rate in some countries could rise to the level of 65 percent, Cicchella emphasized that the fundamental principle of the process that cannot be compromised is voluntariness. She expressed that Syrians who are not currently in a position to return should continue to be supported in the countries where they are located, and that students receiving education experiencing residence permit issues would effectively mean coercion.
Touching upon good practices in the region as well, Cicchella cited as examples Turkey offering Syrians the opportunity to spend time in their country to refresh family ties, no fees being charged to Syrians at border crossings in Lebanon, and the work of Iraqi authorities supporting return. Stating that the refugee law framework in Turkey is one of the best examples in the world, Cicchella noted that while access to higher education for refugees is at a global average level of 6 percent, it reached 14 percent in Turkey.
Cicchella also drew attention to a growing risk of statelessness in the region. Stating that there are children rendered stateless in host countries due to unregistered marriages and lack of documentation, she characterized Egypt's regulation allowing the mother's citizenship to be transferred to the child in certain cases as a practice that could serve as an example for the region. She expressed that UNHCR is ready to share the data it holds with regional governments, subject to the consent of individuals.
Emphasizing that host countries should not be left alone, Cicchella called for responsibility to be shared by all countries, and for financial institutions to also be included in the process regarding financing and investment.
Assi: The aim is to guarantee workers' rights and prevent informality
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/175/457052804918.jpg" alt="457052804918.jpg" />
Samar Assi, Director General of Syrian Labor at the Lebanese Ministry of Labor, stated that there was regular migration mobility before 2011, while irregular migration increased significantly after the war, with Syrians being involved particularly in the agriculture and construction sectors.
Expressing that document deficiencies at border crossings made it difficult to obtain work permits and that this laid the ground for exploitation in some cases, Assi relayed that the technical commission formed together with the new government established in 2025 made regulations in the legislation. She said that the main goal of these regulations is to guarantee workers' rights, prevent informal employment, and maintain balance in the shrinking labor market.
Assi emphasized that there is no problem in terms of social cohesion in Lebanon; the main difficulty arises in the processes of residence permits, legal documents, and work permits. Stating that efforts are being made to establish coordination with the Syrian government, Assi expressed that as reconstruction and reinforcement efforts progress in Syria, the necessary motivation for voluntary return will also strengthen.
Prof. Dr. Al-Bedewi: Every country's experience is unique to its own conditions
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/175/45728852661.jpg" alt="45728852661.jpg" />
Prof. Dr. Al-Bedewi, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science at the University of Baghdad, stated that the issue of migration is a multi-dimensional topic intertwined with terrorism, economy, and governance, expressing that each country gives a unique response to migration according to its own conditions.
Comparing the different incentive mechanisms implemented by countries, Al-Bedewi cited as examples the approach developed by Turkey through temporary protection status, Lebanon's practices based on financial support, and the integration policy carried out by Iraq as part of its national development program. He relayed that approximately 150 thousand people returned to Syria from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
Drawing attention to the differences between figures announced by institutions, Al-Bedewi stated that this stems from differences in the definition of refugees and conditions of return. As the most important lesson of the process, he expressed that return should be encouraged where voluntary return is possible, and integration where it is not.
In this framework, touching upon the importance of establishing a transparent and manageable legal framework between the country of origin and the host country, regularly measuring public perception, and creating a regional solidarity fund, Al-Bedewi emphasized that the issue exceeds the power of individual states and requires regional coordination and international support. He stated that the experience of one country cannot be directly adapted to another, and ways of cooperation should be developed with this awareness.
Presentation of appreciation to the contributing speakers
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/175/457736991075.jpg" alt="457736991075.jpg" />
At the end of the panel, the moderator and speakers were thanked for their contributions to the forum. Following the panel, Müzeyyen Taşçı, Women's Diaspora and Communications Coordinator of the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, presented thank-you gifts to Dr. Ravza Kavakcı Kan, Azzam Hancı, Daniela Carmela Cicchella, Samar Assi, and Prof. Dr. Al-Bedewi for their valuable contributions to the forum.
Roundtable workshop held after the panel
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/175/458037206949.jpg" alt="458037206949.jpg" />
In the Roundtable Workshop held within the scope of the Regional Migration and Return Forum, the future of regional migration mobility was addressed from a strategic perspective.
In the workshop organized with the participation of strategic think tanks operating in the field of migration mobility; comprehensive consultations were held on possible migration movements that regional countries may face in the future, risk analyses, and projections for the future.
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/175/459523181163.jpg" alt="459523181163.jpg" />
The workshop contributed to developing a common vision regarding regional migration dynamics and evaluating future policy recommendations.
<div style="text-align: center; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a style="background-color: #029eb1; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 28px; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 16px; display: inline-block; transition: background-color 0.3s;" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E70mECFjOQY" target="_blank"> 6th Session Live Stream Recording </a></div>
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In the Strategic Panel held on the second day within the scope of the Regional Migration and Return Forum, reconstruction and the creation of safe living spaces in safe and sustainable return processes were addressed.
In the session moderated by AK Party Vice Chairman of Foreign Affairs Emir Yasin Kekeç; Inas Al Najjar, Director General of Turkey Bilateral Relations at the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Sohaib Jawhar, Research Fellow at the Politics and Society Institute; Dr. Mustafa Saray, Director of the Iraqi Bayan Center for Planning and Studies; and Rafaat Mikati, President of Tripoli University in Lebanon shared their views.
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/173/423724812629.jpg" alt="423724812629.jpg" />
In the panel, evaluations were made on infrastructure, housing, health, and education investments, as well as coordinated reconstruction processes.
<div class="gdv-forum-ozet">
Al Najjar: Return should be planned within the framework of a specific strategy
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/173/42395320343.jpg" alt="42395320343.jpg" />
Emphasizing that return should be handled within the framework of a specific strategy, Inas Al Najjar, Director General of Turkey Bilateral Relations at the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed that it should be taken into account that people who left behind their homes, property, and jobs when leaving their country will face a cost upon their return as well.
Stating that, according to World Bank data, there is a reconstruction need of approximately 200 billion dollars in Syria, Al Najjar noted that this is not a burden that the Syrian government can handle alone, and that a sharing of burden and responsibility together with neighboring and supporting countries is required. She expressed that the international support received so far has remained mostly at the level of declarations of intent, and that contributions such as the repair of schools and hospitals are not on a scale to constitute the infrastructure for return.
Stating that the return of vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly should be supported primarily, Al Najjar expressed that initial incentives allowing their families to earn a living for the return of qualified personnel such as physicians, academics, engineers, and teachers would accelerate the process. She emphasized that Syrian youth raised in Turkey being familiar with Turkish language and culture forms a bridge that strengthens relations between the two countries, and that this accumulation should be evaluated as a long-term gain.
Underlining that return should be voluntary, Al Najjar stated that regulations facilitating round trips would accelerate the process; and that non-governmental organizations should be included in the process not merely as implementers, but as actors who identify needs in the field and provide feedback to policymakers.
Jawhar: Reconstruction is not just rebuilding buildings, but also institutions
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/173/424185154962.jpg" alt="424185154962.jpg" />
Sohaib Jawhar, Research Fellow at the Politics and Society Institute, stated that a balance needs to be established between financial capacity and refugee hosting capacity in his country, but this balance has not yet been achieved. He relayed that, according to a report by a Beirut-based research center, the destruction Lebanon was subjected to exceeded 20 billion dollars, to which the financial crisis taking effect since 2019 was added.
Emphasizing that reconstruction does not merely mean building roads and buildings, Jawhar expressed that the main issue is the rebuilding of state institutions and capacities. He stated that addressing the shortcomings in electricity, water, education, and health services is also a matter of social security in Lebanon.
Jawhar emphasized that the problems in the region are not only the result of the last fifteen years, but of issues accumulated over decades; therefore, a solution will only be possible step-by-step within a specific plan and strategy. He expressed that regional actors acting together in this process and the negotiation diplomacy pursued by Turkey could be decisive.
Dr. Saray: Migration is not a burden, but a potential to be evaluated
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/173/424446526094.jpg" alt="424446526094.jpg" />
Dr. Mustafa Saray, Director of the Iraqi Bayan Center for Planning and Studies, stated that the issue of migration should be handled not merely as a crisis, but as an issue that can be turned into an opportunity, expressing that Iraq has a unique experience as both a country of origin and destination for migration.
Emphasizing that refugees should be seen not as a point of weakness for the state, but as a pool of talent to be evaluated, Saray expressed that this potential could be mobilized with smart financing models and micro-credits. He stated that Syrians located in Iraq both contribute to the country they are in and transfer the experience they have gained upon their return to the reconstruction of their country.
He expressed that economic cooperation could be strengthened through the revival of mutual trade and support for projects such as energy pipelines and the development road; and in this direction, commissions enabling countries to benefit from each other's experiences and a joint regional fund focusing on specific investment areas could be established.
Referring to the relations between Iraq and Syria as well, Saray stated that the neighborhood and kinship ties between the two countries are strong, and there is a strong will to develop coordination in security, economic, and social fields, especially joint border security.
Rafaat Mikati: Academic return must also be safe
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/173/425202251134.jpg" alt="425202251134.jpg" />
Rafaat Mikati, President of Tripoli University in Lebanon, built his speech on the concept of "academic return," relaying that their university accepted hundreds of Syrian students on full scholarships during the war period. He stated that some of the accepted students were graduates from Damascus and Aleppo universities, while others were students whose education was left incomplete.
Expressing that this support was seen as a humanitarian and moral responsibility, El Mikati relayed that graduated students today undertake duties such as rectorates and deanships in Syria, some are academics in Turkey, and some contribute to the establishment of new educational environments by teaching in schools.
Referring to the bureaucratic obstacles faced by students, El Mikati stated that detailed transcripts year by year are requested in diploma equivalence processes; however, these documents cannot be accessed as many schools were destroyed in the war. He expressed that not being able to enter the equivalence process without a residence permit makes the process even more complicated.
Emphasizing that not renewing the residence of a student whose education continues effectively means forced migration, El Mikati said that residency should not be turned into a tool of pressure. For a sustainable academic return, he proposed establishing a joint committee between the education ministries of Syria and Lebanon and resolving equivalence processes definitively within a specific timetable.
El Mikati also relayed that they organized an international conference focusing on the quality of education during war periods; and that they initiated a study to archive the educational support provided during migration periods, stating that they are open to cooperation with the Migration and Diaspora Foundation in this field.
Emphasis on regional cooperation
Making an evaluation at the closing of the session, Kekeç emphasized that the problems of the region should be solved by regional actors, expressing that in countries where stability is achieved, the diaspora returns to lead economic development, and that the Somalia example clearly demonstrates this.
Stating that relations between countries had been conducted through the security bureaucracy for a long time, while civil and academic consultation channels strengthened late, Kekeç said that the forum contributed to filling this gap. He expressed his wish for the forum to be held in the capital of one of the participating countries next year.
Presentation of appreciation to the contributing speakers
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/173/425579844214.jpeg" alt="425579844214.jpeg" />
Following the panel, Murat Şahin, Head of Financial Affairs and Organization Management at the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, presented thank-you gifts to Inas Al Najjar, Sohaib Jawhar, Dr. Mustafa Saray, and Rafaat Mikati for their valuable contributions to the forum.
Roundtable workshop held after the panel
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/173/425933957393.jpeg" alt="425933957393.jpeg" />
In the Roundtable Workshop held within the scope of the Regional Migration and Return Forum, strategic approaches towards strengthening social cohesion and local stability after return were addressed.
In the workshop held with the participation of strategic think tanks operating in the field of migration and integration; consultations were held on the integration of the returning population with local people, mediation mechanisms for protecting property rights, and academic proposals to support the sustainability of social peace.
Bringing together experts from different institutions, the workshop made a significant contribution to the exchange of ideas that will strengthen regional cooperation.
<div style="text-align: center; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a style="background-color: #029eb1; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 28px; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 16px; display: inline-block; transition: background-color 0.3s;" href="https://www.youtube.com/live/RaEJrqYeJHc" target="_blank"> 4th Session Live Stream Recording </a></div>
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In the session moderated by Recep Seyyar, President of the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, and held with the participation of ministers, deputy ministers, and senior public representatives from Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Egypt; issues of safe, voluntary, and dignified return, regional coordination, shared responsibility models, and cooperation in crisis management were comprehensively evaluated.
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/169/536752580873.jpeg" alt="536752580873.jpeg" />
Bringing together decision-makers from different countries on the same platform, the panel provided an important ground for consultation towards developing common approaches that will strengthen regional stability.
Presentation of appreciation to the contributing representatives
Following the panel, Recep Seyyar, President of the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, presented thank-you gifts to Muhammed Selami Yazıcı, Head of the Turkish Presidency of Migration Management; Ahmed Ekzez, Syrian Deputy Minister of Disasters; Hanin Esseyyid, Lebanese Minister of Social Affairs and Family; Dr. Karim Nouri, Iraqi Acting Minister of Migration and Displaced; and Reyhan Özgür, Acting Director General of Migration Policies and Visa Proceedings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for their valuable contributions to the forum.
Roundtable workshop held after the panel
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/169/536802461711.jpeg" alt="536802461711.jpeg" />
Following the panel, a roundtable workshop titled "Overcoming Legal and Logistical Obstacles to Return in Light of Field Realities" was held. The heads and representatives of think tanks from Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt attended the workshop.
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/169/536846076936.jpeg" alt="536846076936.jpeg" />
In the workshop; the simplification of bureaucratic processes, the establishment of cross-border coordination networks, and the harmonization of legal legislations that complicate return in the field were the focal points.

The Ministries and Bureaucracy Panel, held within the scope of the Regional Migration and Return Forum, addressed the institutional dimension of regional migration management with the participation of experts from different countries.
In the session moderated by Prof. Dr. Abdurrahman Babacan; Dr. Ali Faris, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Iraqi Al-Nahrain Center for Strategic Studies; Dr. Hussein Muhammad Shibli, Chairman of the Jordan Hashemite Commission; Dr. Suheir Awad, Chairman of the Board of Misr El-Kheir; and Syrian Member of Parliament Dr. Husam Hamdan shared their views.
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/170/548345943552.jpeg" alt="548345943552.jpeg" />
In the panel, comprehensive consultations were held on cross-border governance, the perception of security in regional migration management, data sharing, integration of registration systems, coordination at border crossings, and mechanisms to strengthen inter-institutional cooperation.
Presentation of appreciation to the panelists
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/170/548393716918.jpeg" alt="548393716918.jpeg" />
Following the panel, Prof. Dr. Abdurrahman Babacan presented thank-you gifts to Dr. Ali Faris, Dr. Hussein Muhammad Shibli, Dr. Suheir Awad, and Dr. Husam Hamdan for their valuable contributions to the forum.

In the session moderated by Prof. Dr. Veysel Kurt; Dr. Mustafa Avvad, Jordan Director of the International Islamic Charity Organization; Dr. Ali Al-Mamouri, President of the Iraqi Enki Center for Strategic Studies; Nasser Yassin, Director of the Lebanese Arab Center; and Dr. Ayman Al-Akkad, Director General of International Relations and Cooperation at the Syrian Ministry of Disasters, contributed with their speeches.
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/171/554725249391.jpeg" alt="554725249391.jpeg" />
In the panel, comprehensive consultations were held on field experiences regarding regional migration management, institutional experiences, examples of good practice, and cooperation opportunities to strengthen information sharing between countries.
Presentation of appreciation to the contributing speakers
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/171/554757779899.jpeg" alt="554757779899.jpeg" />
Following the panel, Prof. Dr. Veysel Kurt presented thank-you gifts to Dr. Mustafa Avvad, Dr. Ali Al-Mamouri, Nasser Yassin, and Dr. Ayman Al-Akkad for their valuable contributions to the forum.
Roundtable workshop held after the panel
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/171/554817018613.jpeg" alt="554817018613.jpeg" />
Following the panel, a roundtable workshop titled "Regional Integration and the Socio-Economic Dimension of Migration: Development Formulas for Sustainable Return" was held. The heads of research centers and migration experts from the Middle East and North Africa region attended the workshop.
<img src="https://gdv.sistem.plus/public/news/0/171/554856098069.jpeg" alt="554856098069.jpeg" />
In the workshop, regional fund management, job creation strategies in return areas, and regional cooperation models to alleviate the economic burden on host countries were the focal points.

Workshop On New Approaches In Migration And Integration Policies

Syria Field Observation Report

From Turkey To Syria: Building The Future Education Report

Turkey Migration Mobility Report (2016–2023)

Regional Migration

WORKSHOP

EVENTS

MEDİA

DIASPORA

ACADEMY

DIPLOMACY

WOMEN

Held with the participation of public representatives, research centers, academics, and non-governmental organizations from Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Egypt, the Regional Migration and Return Forum addressed the voluntary, safe, and dignified return processes of Syrian asylum seekers in a multi-dimensional manner.
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Following the protocol speeches in the opening session, the importance of regional cooperation and an understanding of shared responsibility stood out within the framework of safe, dignified, and sustainable return perspectives. In the three sessions held throughout the day, the protocol and high-level panel, the ministries and bureaucracy panel, and the special session on regional migration management experience were discussed respectively.
In the roundtable workshops held after the panels, comprehensive consultations were held on the legal and logistical obstacles to return, the simplification of bureaucratic processes, cross-border coordination, and the socio-economic dimension of migration. The first day was completed with evaluations highlighting that the return processes will shape not only the present but also the future of the region.
All news from the first day:
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The opening of the Regional Migration and Return Forum, hosted by the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, was held in Ankara on July 21, 2026. Bringing stakeholders together to develop a common vision on migration management, voluntary return processes, and regional cooperation, the forum began with a promotional film, protocol speeches, and an opening presentation. In the program, the importance of regional cooperation and an understanding of shared responsibility stood out within the framework of safe, dignified, and sustainable return perspectives.
Held with the participation of public representatives, research centers, academics, and non-governmental organizations from Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Egypt, the forum addressed regional ownership, crisis management, and a shared vision for return processes.
"Active participation is essential"
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Delivering the opening speech, Recep Seyyar, Chairman of the Board of the Migration and Diaspora Foundation, emphasized that the voluntary, safe, and dignified return processes of Syrian asylum seekers will only be possible through regional cooperation, joint policy-making, and the active participation of Syria's decision-making actors in the process.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Özel: "Human-centric approach"
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In his speech at the opening session, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey Hacı Ali Özel stated that Turkey has approached migration movements with a human-centric understanding throughout history. He expressed that regional peace, security, and prosperity can only be built on the basis of cooperation, joint development, and regional ownership. Drawing attention to the importance of friendly and sister countries acting together in the face of common challenges, Özel noted that Turkey continues to contribute to global humanitarian efforts while maintaining its protection policies within the framework of international law.
Özel emphasized that lasting solutions in migration management will only be possible with policies that focus on the root causes of migration and are based on an understanding of cooperation and shared responsibility. Touching upon the importance of regional solidarity in combating factors that trigger migration, such as conflict, instability, and poverty, Özel stated that the principles of international law, human dignity, and fair burden-sharing should be at the center of migration policies.
Deputy Minister of Interior Cangir: "Human dignity is at the center"
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Deputy Minister of Interior of the Republic of Turkey Dr. Mehmet Cangir stated that the developments in Syria over the last 15 years have once again demonstrated that migration management is a multi-dimensional issue requiring international solidarity and coordination. Stating that the Syrian crisis has displaced millions of people and placed significant responsibilities on neighboring countries, Cangir emphasized that Turkey has treated the issue as a humanitarian responsibility since the first day of the process.
Noting that a safe living space has been offered to millions of Syrians through the open-door policy and temporary protection practices, Cangir expressed that human dignity is at the center of every step taken. Emphasizing that migration management is not limited solely to protection policies, Cangir noted that significant steps have been taken to strengthen social cohesion through various integration policies ranging from education to employment, and that collaborations with international organizations have also contributed to this process.
Within the scope of the forum, migration management, regional cooperation, and the voluntary, safe, and dignified return processes of Syrians continue to be discussed in a multi-dimensional manner.

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<div style="text-align: center; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a style="background-color: #029eb1; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 28px; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; font-size: 16px; display: inline-block; transition: background-color 0.3s;" href="https://gocvediaspora.org/ar/haber/bolgesel-goc-ve-geri-donus-perspektifleri-forumu-akisi" target="_blank"> PROGRAM SCHEDULE IN ARABIC </a></div>

At our workshop titled "The Role of Civil Society in the Syrian Return Process", we evaluated the return process, the role of civil society, and opportunities for joint collaboration alongside esteemed experts in the field.
We would like to express our gratitude to Istanbul Commerce University for contributing to the realization of the program, to the Rector Prof. Dr. Necip Şimşek for his hospitality, and to the Directorate General for Relations with Civil Society, the Presidency of Women's Diaspora Communications, and their valuable teams for their support.