Minister of Interior Yerlikaya on Migration Policy and Security

Ali Yerlikaya, Minister of Interior of the Republic of Turkey, made important statements on migration policies, stating that the politics of xenophobia and hatred have ended.

Politics of xenophobia and racism are no longer valid

Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya made important statements on the agenda in a live broadcast on a television channel and made evaluations on Turkey’s migration policy, the situation of irregular migrants and the fight against organized crime. Yerlikaya emphasized that Turkey follows a policy based on humanitarian and conscientious values.

4 Million Legal Foreigners
Stating that the number of foreigners legally staying in Turkey is 4 million 163 thousand 101, Yerlikaya said that 2 million 911 thousand 525 of this number are Syrians under temporary protection. Stating that Turkey is on the right side of history by siding with the oppressed, Mr. Yerlikaya said that under the leadership of President Erdoğan, they follow a governance approach based on humanitarian values.

Migration Policies and Return Process
Yerlikaya gave examples of Syrians who returned to their country after the overthrow of the regime in Syria. Referring to the farewell ceremony organized in Başakşehir, Yerlikaya stated that the return of Syrian Muhammed Eyman to his country created an emotional atmosphere. Stating that 29 thousand people returned voluntarily between December 9-25, Yerlikaya emphasized that this number is increasing day by day.

Turkey Stands on the Right Side
Drawing attention to the increasing xenophobia in the world, Yerlikaya said that Turkey acts with the understanding of incar in accordance with the values of faith and civilization. Stating that those who pursue hate politics will not be able to hold on against this understanding, Yerlikaya said that such a policy collapsed on December 8.

Migration Management and Consulates Open
Yerlikaya announced that the Turkish flag is flying in Damascus and a consulate general will be opened in Aleppo as part of the cooperation with the Syrian government. Yerlikaya announced that a Migration Management Office will also be established and stated that the necessary systems will be set up to ensure that the registration procedures of those returning from Syria are carried out smoothly.

Inspection at Sednaya Prison
Yerlikaya stated that AFAD teams conducted detailed searches with state-of-the-art technology devices during the inspections in Syria’s Sednaya Prison and that no suspicious situation was found. Finding the opposition’s criticisms on this issue unfair, Yerlikaya stated that Turkey stands on the right side and protects human dignity.

The Fight Against Organized Crime and Drugs Continues
Minister Yerlikaya shared striking figures on Turkey’s fight against organized crime organizations and drug trafficking. Stating that 53 thousand people were arrested for drug crimes in 1.5 years, Yerlikaya announced that 819 operations were carried out against organized crime organizations and assets worth 106 billion liras were seized.

Cameras in Law Enforcement Forces
In 2025, Yerlikaya gave information about the new practices that will come into effect and stated that all police, gendarmerie and coast guard teams will carry cameras on their collars. He said that with this application, communications with citizens will be transparently recorded.

Decisive Attitude on Transit Migration Route
Responding to criticism that Turkey is a transit route for irregular migrants, Yerlikaya said that great steps have been taken in border security. He announced that 223 thousand people were prevented from entering the country at the eastern borders last year, while this figure dropped to 104 thousand this year.

Determination in the Fight against Crime
Stating that they are determined to reduce crime rates and catch criminals, Yerlikaya said that a 30 percent reduction in crime rates was achieved in 2023. He emphasized that they will work with determination to ensure Turkey’s peace and security.

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