Due to China’s harsh oppression in Xinjiang, thousands of Uyghur Turk families sought refuge in Turkiye. Many live in basic conditions in developmental areas around Istanbul, Kayseri, Eskisehir, and Ankara.
About 50,000 Uyghur Turks have fled to Turkiye in the last three years, mainly relying on support from the Turkish government and their families. Most have settled in Istanbul’s Zeytinburnu distict. Despite their situation, Uyghur Turks are not officially recognized as refugees in Turkey, leaving them without access to legal or social services. As a result, they face susceptibility to exploitation and injustice regarding their rights and healthcare access.
- IDRF is facilitating access to healthcare services for Uyghur Refugees through a community center
- Providing psychosocial support services to help them adapt to the community
- Vocational training and language support
- Increasing their awareness of their access to legal rights, food aid and economic participation through the community center
The Uyghur community in Turkey needs our help now, more than ever.