Attitudes on Migrants: An Analysis in the Context of Labour Markets

It would seem that the issue of migrants is currently a significant concern for the Turkish public. In the ongoing discussions surrounding this complex issue, there is a growing emphasis on the cultural and political aspects of migration. However, comprehensive public opinion surveys indicate that the perceived threat of competition in labour markets may be a contributing factor to the negative attitudes of citizens towards immigrants. While the presence of migrant workers in Turkey has been a visible reality since the mid-1990s, it is worth noting that public interest has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly in the context of the migration of Syrians after 2011. It would appear that the presence of Syrian migrants, like that of other migrant groups, is concentrated in informal and precarious work. The aim of this analysis report is to assess the labour market-related conditions that may influence attitudes towards migrants in the context of Turkish society. The report considers the impact of labour market conditions on public opinion through the lens of relevant theories. It also examines the factors that give rise to a segmented labour market. Finally, an attempt is made to analyse the differences in attitudes towards migrants according to citizens' position in the labour market, using the existing comprehensive data sets.