Esenyurt is an area in İstanbul which has a large migrant and immigrant community. Last week I visited the town’s commission responsible for immigration within the council. The commission has representatives from 16 different countries. I listened to some of the issues they were experiencing and their request for immediate help.

Keeping the promise I made to the representatives of the commission, I am sharing my notes from the meeting:

- There are around 214,000 migrants/immigrants living in the town. 127,000 of the immigrants are from Syria. However, the actual figures are thought to be higher. The immigrant/migrant community constitutes 24% of the towns total population which has put increasing pressure on council services. However, despite such pressure, the members of the commission are refusing to accept restrictions on migrants being imposed. They believe that restrictions will lead to inequalities. Instead, they propose that the government should assign funds according to the number of people living in the town as opposed to their current system. Almost all are in favour of an immigration minister being appointed.

- You might remember the Essembion couple who faced discriminated by the estate agents whilst looking for a rental property. Their story received large coverage in some newspapers. The members of the commission have said that, “the estate agents often take deposit monies from potential Afro-Caribbean tenants. They then pretend the house has been sold and retain their deposits. The immigrants do not make any complaints due to the fear of being deported.”

- In general the immigrants from Afro-Caribbean background are subject to more severe discrimination. There are reports that the females are being subject to verbal abuse. Despite the low levels of education among the immigrant population the rate of crime amongst them is low.

- The cosmopolitan lifestyle brings about new problems. For example, in Afghanistan, “crossing your legs whilst sitting” is not considered rude. However, the Turks can find this offensive. Hence, education is key to a joint life.

- The immigrant communities experience difficulties accessing health care. The most common illness among the population is Tuberculosis and skin issues. The rates of COVID 19 are not known. Immigrants do not go to the hospitals due to the fear of deportation. The accessibility of the COVID vaccine is also an issue. As most hospitals charge them non-resident fees which are much higher than those with resident status. Those with diabetes are facing difficulties purchasing their medication due to expensive costs. Those who do not have any money but attend the hospital are forced to leave by the police.

- When a new baby is delivered in hospital, immigrant parents are requested to provide a passport. It is not always possible for immigrants to go back to their home countries to obtain such passport. Hence, many babies are not given the Turkish ID card which enables access to free health care and education. Those with funds can afford to send their children to Palestinian schools to be educated privately. However, most cannot afford this. Hence, members of the commission are requesting free education and health for all newborns.

- One of the most common complaints is around the treatment they receive in the migration office which sees long queues and expensive fees. They find the attitude of the personnel degrading. They say the workers telling them “Git git git” which means ‘go, go, go’ is offensive. Those without an ID card are not able to book an appointment to attend the office. The United Nations also fail to provide them with any support. Hence, the commission is requesting that they are granted leave on humanitarian basis.

- Most have chosen the town as their prime location as its close to many factories. The factory owners use immigrants to benefit from cheap labour. The members of the council have said that many are forced to live with just as little as 1600 TL a month. Which means they are only paid 5.5 liras per hour. In conclusion; The migrants and immigrants of Esenyurt are awaiting resolutions to the problems they face. They request a decent wage and access to basic needs such as health and education. They want their silent screams to be heard. If you do happen to pass by Esenyurt, make time to listen to the immigrants and their needs over a cup of tea.

Solidarity is the kindness of those oppressed.