Between Stagnation and Mobility: Syrian Refugees from Turkey to Austria

Judith Kohlenberger published the article“(Im)permanent Settlement: Protracted Displacement and Secondary Movement Experiences of Syrian Refugees from Turkey to Austria” together with Sophie Reichelt and Kotayba Kadri, analyzing the sharp increase in Syrian arrivals to Austria in 2022 and comparing it to earlier migration waves. Unlike the 2015/16 cohort, many of the newly arrived Syrians had spent extended periods in Turkey before reaching Europe. During this time, they often faced precarious living conditions, as temporary protection offered only limited rights. A qualitative study shows this prolonged displacement experiences were marked by economic hardship, restricted access to education, and widespread discrimination, violence, and fear of deportation. These conditions significantly contributed to onward migration to the EU, highlighting the long-term challenges of temporary protection systems.