The Syria Crisis that started in 2011 forced millions out of their homes and countries. The long-term effects of the Syrian civil war and forced migration have also increased the need for protection and health support for women and girls, who are disproportionately affected by the crisis, and groups with special needs such as persons with disabilities. United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA has been on the forefront in Şanlıurfa with the financial support of the Swedish Government and in partnership with Harran University and Provincial Directorate of Health to empower women and girls.

The civil war in Syria has caused millions of people to leave their homes and country since 2011. Currently, Türkiye continues to host more than 3 million Syrian refugees in 2024. Women, girls and groups with special needs are among the most vulnerable groups among refugees, and theyneed specialized support in the field of health and protection. One of those women is 41-year-old Foze, who migrated to Türkiye with her husband and newborn baby in 2015.

Upon settling in Türkiye, Foze’s son Halid was diagnosed with autism. After she escaped the war, Foze was shaken again by this news as she tried to build a new life in a new country. She applied to UNFPA's Women and Girls Safe Space in Şanlıurfa to learn how to manage this process and get support.

"I was lost and alone," she says. "I didn't know how to help my son. But the staff at the center helped me equip with the knowledge and support that I needed." At UNFPA, Foze found hope. Foze received psychoeducation and practical advice from the psychologist at the center on how to approach her child, how to communicate with him, and how to support him in his daily life. This helped her understand Halid’s behavior and develop effective parenting strategies. The center staff also provided Foze with counseling on women’s and reproductive health.

Inspired by the positive change created by UNFPA’s support, Foze became an advocate for other families facing similar challenges. “I wanted to help other mothers who faced the same challenges I faced,” said Foze, and she partnered with the center to reach out to other caregivers who needed support. With Foze’s initiative, UNFPA launched awareness sessions and organized social events with mothers and children in partnership with the Swedish Government and Harran University to raise awareness for mothers of children with autism and empower them with the knowledge and tools they need for this special care.

As UNFPA, with the support of our fund providers and partners, we are on the ground all over Türkiye in line with the “Leaving no one behind” principle. We provide information and services to women and girls, including refugees and migrants, through gender-based violence and reproductive health services and awareness-raising sessions, dignity kits and cash support, psychoeducation and psychosocial support and guidance in our Women and Girls Safe Spaces