Türkiye's approach to return migration policy involves several key elements, encompassing legal frameworks, international cooperation, and specific programmes aimed at facilitating the return of migrants to their countries of origin.
In terms of the legal framework, Türkiye enforces return migration through a legal and regulatory framework aligned with national laws and international agreements. The Law on Foreigners and International Protection (LFIP) is a cornerstone, setting out the procedures and conditions for returning foreigners in Türkiye who are found to be staying irregularly or may not qualify for international protection. The LFIP outlines procedures for deportation, voluntary return, and the rights and obligations of migrants and refugees within Turkish territory. This legal framework is also in alignment with international law, standards, and obligations that include adherence to principles of non-refoulement, human rights considerations, and the dignity and safety of migrants throughout the return process.
Regarding international cooperation, Türkiye has entered into readmission agreements with several countries and the European Union (EU). In addition, Türkiye has a bilateral agreement-like political document, the EU-Türkiye Statement, which has articles related to return and readmission. Türkiye also collaborates with international organisations, such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) to ensure the humane and orderly return of migrants.
Concerning specific programmes, the assisted return and reintegration programme (AVRR) with IOM and the national voluntary programme with ICMPD (N-AVRR) are important for voluntary, safe and dignified return for migrants who wish to go back to their countries of origin, often including support for reintegration efforts.
Türkiye's return migration policies are shaped by a combination of domestic priorities and international cooperation, aiming to manage return migration in a way that respects the rights of migrants while meeting the country's regulatory and security needs. These policies are subject to ongoing evaluation and adaptation, reflecting changes in migration flows, international agreements, and the broader geopolitical context.
Based on Türkiye's legal framework and practical applications, four types of returns are observed: pushbacks, forced returns, assisted returns and spontaneous returns. Regarding the pushbacks, the Türkiye-Greece sea and land and Türkiye-Bulgaria land borders are critical on the west; Türkiye-Iran and Türkiye-Syria land borders represent the east and south. In terms of forced returns, administrative detention for returning and deportation exists, but Türkiye also has readmission agreements and similar political collaboration pacts like the EU-Türkiye Statement. Türkiye also has two main assisted voluntary return programmes supported by IOM and ICPMD. Finally, there are also "spontaneous returns", although not highly representative, that are not supported and are based on individual decisions. The main legal framework exists for forced returns and assisted voluntary returns.
Author:N. Ela Gökalp ARAS
