De-essentializing Refugees: Perceptions, Experiences, and Becoming of Syrians in Türkiye

This book delves into the profound journey of Syrians from pre-war aspirations to the harsh realities of refugee life in Türkiye. Through the voices of seventy-nine individuals, it explores the transformation from hopeful citizens seeking social change to displaced refugees. Grounded in fieldwork conducted between 2015 and 2016, the manuscript poses the critical question: “How is refugee ‘becoming’ experienced in dual spatiality and multiple temporalities?”

By integrating innovative approaches like relational pragmatics and intersectional identities, this work enriches existing conflict theories.The author employs a unique methodological lens inspired by cinematic apparatus theory, utilizing an “eye-camera” perspective to create Brechtian “breaking moments” that invite readers to engage deeply with the narratives. This book is not just an academic exploration; it is a powerful call to confront the normalization of war and to understand the irreversible impacts of violence and displacement through the lived experiences of individuals. Ideal for those interested in both theoretical discussions and the raw realities of human experience, this manuscript offers a compelling look at the refugee experience that challenges readers to rethink their perceptions of conflict and resilience.