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German-Turkish Municipal Dialogue on Migration Management and Good Governance in Gaziantep
Municipal Exchange on Migration, Integration and Social Cohesion
From 30 September to 3 October 2026, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Türkiye, in cooperation with the Association for Social Development and Aid Mobilization (ASAM), organised a German-Turkish Municipal Dialogue on Migration Management and Good Governance in Gaziantep. Representatives of German municipalities exchanged experiences with Turkish municipal and public authorities, as well as stakeholders from civil society, international organisations, academia and the private sector, discussing experiences, challenges and opportunities for cooperation in local migration management.
Bringing Municipal Perspectives Together
Both German municipalities and the Turkish city of Gaziantep have extensive experience in receiving and integrating refugees. Since the onset of the Syrian crisis, Gaziantep has developed diverse cooperation structures involving public institutions, international organisations, civil society actors, academia and the private sector. German municipalities have also gained valuable experience in receiving and integrating refugees, particularly since 2015/2016.
Against this background, the three-day dialogue provided a platform for exploring different municipal approaches, exchanging experiences and identifying opportunities for closer cooperation between German and Turkish municipalities.
Migration, Integration and Resilient Municipal Structures
The programme combined expert discussions with practical insights into local approaches. Key topics included municipal migration management, integration and labour market integration, voluntary return and reintegration, as well as strengthening social cohesion and resilient municipal structures.
During discussions with the Gaziantep municipal administration and other local stakeholders, participants gained insights into municipal strategies and cooperation models. A visit to ASAM in Gaziantep provided an opportunity to learn about its community-based integrated social service model for refugees. In addition, the visit to the Reintegration and Support Centre offered insights into a multi-stakeholder model supporting Syrians considering voluntary return to Syria. Discussions focused on counselling and support services, as well as cooperation among different stakeholders in preparing for return and supporting reintegration in Syria.
The role of the private sector in labour market integration was also addressed. A visit to a local company and an exchange with the Gaziantep Chamber of Industry and Commerce highlighted the importance of cooperation between public institutions and businesses. Discussions with academics from Gaziantep University and Syrian students complemented the municipal perspectives with academic insights and personal experiences.
Another programme highlight was participation in the Unique Summit Gaziantep 2026, an international summit bringing together public-sector representatives, start-ups, businesses, investors and institutions to foster innovation, establish new partnerships and advance sustainable economic development. The event also provided additional opportunities for international exchange on innovation, economic development, public-private partnerships and sustainable urban development.
Dialogue as a Foundation for Future Cooperation
The Municipal Dialogue highlighted the value of international exchange for municipal practice. The meetings enabled participants to compare different approaches, strengthen existing networks and establish new contacts between German and Turkish stakeholders.
Through this dialogue, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Türkiye and ASAM are committed to strengthening German-Turkish cooperation and professional exchange on municipal migration management and good governance. The aim is to develop a better understanding of shared challenges and identify opportunities for future cooperation between municipalities.
