Worldwide, development experience is showing that crises, conflicts, and violence remain intractable unless an inclusive social and economic approach is adopted based on the constructive participation of youth. In the example of the Syria Crisis, in Turkey, which hosts the largest refugee population in the world, it has taken important steps towards integrating the 3.7 million Syrians under Temporary Protection into national systems and society. However, some of the special problems faced by the young population, who make up a large population of Syrians and the host communities require comprehensive and sustainable solutions.

“Employability, Entrepreneurship and Social Cohesion for Syrian and Turkish Youth-in Response to the Syria Crisis” Project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP Turkey in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, focused on the problems of young people under 3 main headings. Through various trainings, the Information and Communication Technologies skills of the youth were increased. The socio-economic adaptation of the Syrian and Turkish youth was supported through activities and trainings. Young people were also provided with the opportunity to start or expand their businesses through entrepreneurship trainings, mentoring and in-kind grants.