Are Syrians in Türkiye vulnerable to ‘epistemic injustice’?: A ‘narrative inquiry’ in the case of Bursa

Abstract

This study examines whether Syrians under temporary protection status in Türkiye vulnerable to epistemic injustice from the host society, exploring implications and transformation of these approaches. It provides a framework for understanding how the host society perceives Syrian refugees, assessing credibility within identified narrative motifs. The study focuses on the host community's narrative, revealing negative stereotypes and testimonial injustices faced by Syrians (as traitors and economic migrants). Interestingly, no correlation exists between exposure to epistemic injustice and anti-Syrian sentiments. To conclude, participants who do not identify as anti-Syrian or see Syrians as beneficial still deny epistemic agency of Syrians.