Encounters of Syrian refugees and locals in the informal garment sector of Esenler district, Istanbul

Abstract

This article focuses on relations between Syrian and local workers in the informal garment sector. It presents a framework showing the participation and integration of the Syrian refugees and the local workers’ response to this process. The findings are based on empirical materials collected in the Esenler district of Istanbul, including 60 interviews with Syrians and locals as well as participant observation in an informal garment atelier in 2020 to 2021. This study shows how Syrian refugees produce coping tactics and gain bargaining power. The research reveals different forms of relations.