Seated in front of a tent near the scene of a building collapse in Adana, southeast Turkey, Zeynep Koca, 49, and her two children experienced a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on February 6, 2023.
This area is home to dozens of tents, which represent a very small fraction of the approximately 2 million people who became homeless as a result of the earthquake that killed over 46,000 people in Turkey and Syria.
“We need everything in order to build a new life. I don’t have anything left. I don’t even have salt,” Koca said.
She said her home was severely damaged, and she was expecting to be resettled at a dormitory. According to Koca, the government will likely order people whose homes sustained only minor damage to return home.
“We are waiting for our state to provide housing to all of us,” she said. “We are cold.”
Turkey a nation straddling the crossroads of Europe and Asia faces a complex issue with homelessness. While the exact number remains elusive, estimates suggest a staggering figure of over 150,000 individuals living without a permanent roof over their heads. This problem, often overlooked and shrouded in stigma, demands attention and action.
Unveiling the Harsh Reality of Homelessness in Turkey
Several factors contribute to this growing crisis, including:
- Economic instability: Turkey’s recent economic woes, including inflation and unemployment, have pushed many into precarious situations, leaving them vulnerable to losing their homes.
- Limited housing options: The lack of affordable housing, particularly in urban areas like Istanbul, forces individuals to live in inadequate or temporary shelters, or worse, on the streets.
- Social stigma: Homelessness is often viewed with disdain and indifference, leading to a lack of support and resources for those in need.
- Mental health and addiction: These issues can further exacerbate the challenges faced by homeless individuals, making it difficult for them to find stable housing and employment.
The Plight of the Homeless: A Glimpse into Their Struggles
Life on the streets of Turkey is fraught with danger and hardship. The homeless face constant threats to their safety and well-being, including:
- Exposure to harsh weather: Turkey’s climate, with its scorching summers and frigid winters, poses a significant risk to the health and survival of those living outdoors.
- Lack of basic necessities: Access to food, clean water, and sanitation facilities is often limited, leading to malnutrition and health problems.
- Violence and crime: The streets can be a breeding ground for violence and crime, making it difficult for the homeless to find safe haven.
A Beacon of Hope: Initiatives Aimed at Addressing Homelessness
Despite the challenges, there are organizations and individuals working tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of the homeless in Turkey. Some notable efforts include:
- The Good Deeds Association: This organization provides essential support services to the homeless, including food, clothing, hygiene facilities, and haircuts.
- Government initiatives: The Turkish government has launched programs like the “Accommodation for the Homeless Project” to provide temporary housing and support during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Action
Tackling homelessness in Turkey requires a multi-pronged approach, This includes:
- Investing in affordable housing: Building more affordable housing options, especially in urban areas, can help prevent homelessness and provide stability for those struggling to find a place to live.
- Addressing the root causes: Addressing issues like poverty, unemployment, and mental health can help reduce the number of people at risk of becoming homeless.
- Raising awareness and combating stigma: Challenging the negative perceptions surrounding homelessness and promoting empathy can encourage more people to get involved in supporting those in need.
Homelessness in Turkey is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, by acknowledging the problem, understanding its causes, and supporting initiatives aimed at providing assistance, we can work towards creating a society where everyone has a safe and stable place to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many homeless people are there in Turkey?
Although the precise number is unknown, estimates place the number of homeless people in Turkey at over 150,000.
What are the main causes of homelessness in Turkey?
Economic instability, limited housing options, social stigma, and mental health and addiction issues are some of the main factors contributing to homelessness in Turkey.
What are the challenges faced by homeless people in Turkey?
Homeless individuals in Turkey face numerous challenges, including exposure to harsh weather, lack of basic necessities, and violence and crime.
What are some initiatives being taken to address homelessness in Turkey?
The goal of government initiatives like the “Accommodation for the Homeless Project” and groups like The Good Deeds Association is to support and aid the homeless community.
What can be done to help address homelessness in Turkey?
To tackle this issue, it is imperative to invest in affordable housing, address the underlying causes of homelessness, raise awareness, and combat stigma.
Additional Resources
- The Borgen Project: https://borgenproject.org/homelessness-in-turkey/
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sovereign_states_by_homeless_population
- The Good Deeds Association: https://www.iyilikhareketi.org/en/
Disclaimer
This article is not intended to be professional advice; it is only meant to be informative. Please consult with relevant experts for specific guidance and support.