Turkey has a unique geographical position, historical and cultural background. Being a natural bridge between the East and the West, having cultural and religious ties with the Middle East and North Africa, the kinship with Turkic countries and states in the Balkans, Central Asia and Caucasia make Turkey an attractive destination for groups from these regions. Besides, compared to all of the countries in its region, its relatively longer experience with a parliamentary democracy and open market economy contributes to its attractive position for international migration originating from these regions. Although Turkey’s unique position is in international migration has been elevated after the recent upheaval in Syria, Turkey has always been the natural harbour of international migration originating from the Middle East, Central Asia, Caucasia, and the Balkans. Although motivation of moving to Turkey differs from one groups to another, HE has always been a core instrument facilitating international migration towards Turkey. For some of the migrants HE is the instrument of settling down in Turkey, for others getting a HE in Turkey is instrumental for moving another step towards the West, and finally for still the others a HE degree in Turkey is instrumental to go back a re-build a life in their home country. Based on this broad background, the current study aims at analysing the case of Turkey in international migration and its implication on HE. The study first states the cultural, historical, geographical and legal (international treaties) background facilitating migration towards Turkey. Then the study documents the policy and practices undertaken by Turkey. Finally, the study interprets these policy and practices in relation to international migration theories.

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