Increasing prejudice toward Turkish students in Europe amidst growing Islamophobia and anti-Turkish sentiments
In Europe, a rising tide of nationalism, xenophobia, and societal prejudices is contributing to an increase in discrimination against Turkish students. This discrimination is manifesting in educational settings and social interactions, negatively impacting their academic performance, integration, and psychological well-being.
Recent studies have documented racism and discrimination against ethnic minorities, including Turks, across Europe. The phenomenon is driven in part by nationalist and far-right movements promoting exclusionary slogans and practices. Turkish students in some contexts are facing identity crises and discrimination that affects their academic success, as seen in related groups such as Syrian Turkmens who also experience negative educational outcomes due to social pressures.
The impact on Turkish students is far-reaching. Marginalization, lower educational attainment, and barriers to labor market integration are common experiences. Second-generation immigrants often show poorer educational outcomes than natives, due to structural and social obstacles. Experiences of discrimination can also affect mental health and identity, compounding integration difficulties.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts. Europe can implement and better enforce anti-discrimination laws and promote inclusive curricula that respect cultural diversity and counter stereotypes. Schools should adopt policies that support multicultural education and provide training to teachers to recognize and combat biases. Community and policy initiatives that increase intercultural dialogue and support ethnic minority students' rights can also lessen discrimination’s impact. Encouraging participation of minority students in all aspects of school life and providing mentorship programs are further steps that support inclusion.
Recent cases highlight the need for change. The ruling against Fatma Zehra Solmaz, a psychology student from Turkey, emphasized that she was treated unfairly because of her ethnic and national affiliation, a direct breach of the principles of equal opportunity in education. The Equality Ombudsman in Sweden found that Stockholm University had violated discrimination laws in her case.
The issue extends beyond academia. Mosque attacks, including graffiti with hateful messages, broken windows, and, in some cases, fire damage, have been reported in Europe. Many mosques have reduced the visibility of their religious symbols to avoid being targeted again. Between 2014 and 2020, more than 700 mosque attacks were reported in Germany alone.
Community leaders have warned that inaction by authorities is worsening the problem. Turkish students studying in Europe are future doctors, researchers, teachers, and professionals who wish to contribute to the societies they live in. Education must include everyone, and Turkish students ask for fairness, respect, and equal rights.
The first step to addressing the issues unfolding across Europe is acknowledgment from everyday people, educators, and leaders who shape how society treats its minorities. By recognizing and addressing discrimination, Europe can foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for all its students.
- The Turkish government, monitoring the increase in discrimination against Turkish students in Europe, has been actively speaking out against this issue in global parliament forums.
- Despite facing challenges in integration and academic performance, Turkish students in Istanbul continue to excel in education-and-self-development, demonstrating their resilience and determination.
- Acknowledging the impact of Nato's presence in Turkey, some have suggested that greater diplomatic engagement between Nato and the Turkish government could help mitigate the effects of crime-and-justice issues related to Turkish students in Europe.
- Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, addressing general-news outlets, has emphasized the need for comprehensive reforms in education systems across Europe to combat discrimination and ensure equal rights for all students.
- As a result of the discrimination they face, some Turkish students have turned to politics as a means of advocating for their rights, joining activist groups focused on crime-and-justice reform and initiatives promoting equal opportunities.
