S. is a 26-year-old Syrian woman. After being subjected to physical and psychological violence by her partner, she had to seek refuge at a relative’s house to ensure her safety. However, the possibility that her partner might have discovered her location increased her security concerns. For this reason, she expressed her wish to be placed in a shelter and to voluntarily return to Syria.
After reaching out to several institutions, S. was referred to ADA Türkiye partner SEVKAR, co-funded by the EU and BMZ, through a Migrant Health Centre. Within the scope of the case management and legal counselling provided by SEVKAR, S. received comprehensive information about her rights. In particular, she was informed in detail about the protective and preventive measures available under Law No. 6284 on the Protection of the Family and the Prevention of Violence Against Women.
One of the main obstacles preventing S. from starting the voluntary return process was the lack of legal registration in Türkiye. Through SEVKAR’s referral and cooperation with UNHCR, the Directorate of Migration Management was contacted, and an urgent appointment was arranged to initiate the voluntary return procedures.
During this time, SEVKAR also coordinated with relevant institutions to ensure that S. could access temporary safe accommodation.
After the administrative procedures were completed, S. received the necessary counselling support and carried out her voluntary return.
After returning to Syria, S. continued to stay in contact with SEVKAR and shared that she is currently living in a safe environment.
S.’s story shows that individuals facing violence and security risks can make informed and safe decisions about their lives when they are able to access the right information and support mechanisms. The legal counselling and guidance provided helped S. take an important step toward building a safer future for herself.
Co-financed by the European Union Humanitarian Aid (DG ECHO) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), ADA Türkiye was established in 2021 to ensure long-term coordination and sustainable cooperation. To date, the initiative has reached over 120,000 people through protection services, provided earthquake-related assistance to approximately 31,000 individuals, and implemented over 3,000 activities to promote social cohesion between communities.
