For Muhammed Ramazan, securing a job with health insurance
marked a significant milestone after a decade in Turkiye. Tasked with
maintaining machines at a Gaziantep factory, he joins the ranks of those
contributing to the city's textile industry. However, the devastating earthquakes
that rocked southeastern Turkiye and northern Syria a year ago have rendered
his insurance almost futile.
As a registered Syrian resident in the earthquake zone,
Ramazan found himself at the end of the aid queue, with Turkish citizens
prioritized. Reports of discrimination surfaced, with refugees, predominantly
Syrians, facing physical attacks, verbal abuse, and even evictions from
temporary shelters. The earthquakes' epicentre, just 30 kilometres from
Gaziantep, left millions affected, exacerbating the plight of already
vulnerable populations.
The aftermath of the earthquakes has precipitated dire
economic consequences. Unemployment among refugees in Gaziantep has skyrocketed
from 10% to 40%, according to the Turkish Red Crescent. Ramazan, a father of four,
laments the stark reality of his family's situation, likening their treatment
to that of livestock. Despite being employed, his wages barely cover basic
needs.
Ramazan's discontent culminated in a strike at Vera Ambalaj,
where he and his colleagues demanded better wages, fair treatment, and improved
working conditions. The textile sector, vital to Gaziantep's economy, largely
relies on informal labor, including Syrian refugees. Many work without permits,
facing precarious situations and exploitation.
The earthquakes further exacerbated the plight of Syrian
workers, who were coerced into working long hours for low pay to meet
production demands. Reports emerged of Syrian workers being undercompensated,
denied wages, and threatened with deportation if they protested. The Clean
Clothes Campaign highlighted the exploitation faced by workers, with many
forced into unsafe conditions and inadequate housing.
The strikes reverberated throughout Turkiye, with workers
demanding their rights and fair treatment. Despite facing risks, including
violent crackdowns and arrests, they persisted in their fight for justice.
Solidarity among Turkish workers and growing international pressure have begun
to shed light on the harsh realities faced by Syrian workers in Turkiye's
garment industry.
Efforts by labor unions and advocacy groups aim to address
systemic issues and provide support to vulnerable workers. Calls for fair
wages, job security, and recognition of labor rights underscore the ongoing
struggle for dignity and equality. As Turkiye navigates the aftermath of the
earthquakes, addressing the challenges faced by Syrian workers remains
imperative for fostering inclusive and equitable recovery