The outflow of Ukrainians from Turkey: the ambassador reported a significant reduction in the number of our citizens
The ongoing war in Ukraine continues to affect the lives of millions of people both inside and outside the country. The Ukrainian diaspora, which was previously scattered all over the world, was faced with a choice: to return to the Motherland or seek a new refuge in other countries. The latest data indicate a significant reduction in the number of Ukrainians in Turkey, which indicates a change in attitudes among Ukrainians who were temporarily or permanently outside the borders of their native land. This situation highlights new challenges and opportunities for the Ukrainian community abroad.
According to information provided by the Ambassador of Ukraine to Turkey, Vasyl Bondar, there are currently only 24,000 Ukrainians in Turkey, compared to 840,000 in 2022. Such a sharp reduction can be explained by the fact that the majority of Ukrainians returned home or went to European countries in search of security and stability. The ambassador voiced this question during a discussion within the “New Country” project on the topic “Justice as one of the main tools of state development.”
Despite the population outflow, the Ukrainian community in Turkey continues to actively support its Motherland. There are 22 Ukrainian communities operating in the country, which play an important role in maintaining cultural ties, provide assistance to newcomers, and actively oppose Russian propaganda. Ambassador Bondar emphasized the need to involve Ukrainians abroad in public events, stressing that the war has become a factor that unites Ukrainians, regardless of where they live.
Vasyl Bondar also drew attention to the importance of involving the Ukrainian diaspora, which numbers about 20 million people around the world, in supporting Ukraine. He noted that the law on multiple citizenship can become one of the tools for this. In addition, the active participation of Ukrainians abroad in various activities helps to counter disinformation and to form a positive image of Ukraine on the international arena.
Against this background, the Turkish authorities are preparing to implement new measures to control foreigners, in particular by introducing a fingerprinting system upon entering the country. The Minister of Internal Affairs of Turkey, Ali Yerlikaya, said that one of the new projects is the “chipping” of persons who receive the status of temporary protection, especially Syrians. This innovation aims to provide better control and prevent the possibility of forgery of documents.
Thus, the reduction in the number of Ukrainians in Turkey is one of the many manifestations of ongoing changes in the global Ukrainian diaspora. Military operations, socio-economic circumstances and new challenges force Ukrainians to make difficult decisions about their future. However, despite the difficult circumstances, Ukrainians continue to support their country, maintaining unity and activity both within Ukraine and abroad.
