Epilogue Syrian Sanctuary? Finding Continuities between the Iraqi and Syrian Displacement Crises

Abstract

Syria, once a site of refuge and sanctuary for many a displaced community, is now a battleground for an unrelenting and intractable conflict, which to date has precipitated the displacement of over ten million people — approximately a third of whom have sought refuge in neighboring countries. While those displaced beyond Syria’s territorial borders have fallen under the scrutiny of varying humanitarian regimes — far less is known and understood about the experiences of those who have remained behind in Syria; whose resources would not allow them to go any further or whose ties to community and kin networks have remained sufficiently intact. By shifting our gaze toward those who are displaced within the territorial borders of Syria, we are reminded that conflict zones produce not only debris-ridden neighborhoods, deserted villages, and unimaginable violence but also engender networks of self-reliance, spaces of hospitality, refuge, and sanctuary despite the degradation and erosion of ever-dwindling resources at the disposal of host communities. It is also important to move beyond methodological nationalism (Wimmer and Glick-Schiller 2002) and acknowledge instead that such networks are bound not by rigid understandings of territoriality but are fluid; extending into transnational spaces and maintain a visible presence outside of Syria’s borders, most notably in Turkey.

The Prophet is reported to have said: He who amongst you sees something abominable should modify it with the help of his hand; and if he has not strength enough to do it, then he should do it with his tongue, and if he has not strength enough to do it, (even) then he should (abhor it) from his heart, and that is the least of faith. (Sahih Muslim Book 001, Hadith No. 0077)