Building resilience amidst change: How BRIDGES supports communities in Türkiye

The Building Resilience through Initiatives Defining Growth Potential of Economic Solutions for Syrians in Türkiye (BRIDGES) project, now in its fourth successful phase, plays a critical role in fostering resilience among refugees and displaced populations in Türkiye. By providing targeted, market-driven, and gender-sensitive livelihood assistance, the project ensures individuals can withstand economic shocks and crises and maintain stability even amidst significant volatility. 

Financed by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) via KfW Development Bank, the resilience-building approach of BRIDGES has been particularly impactful in response to the uncertainties surrounding the refugee and host communities, first the 2023 earthquakes and now with the changed political situation in Syria—helping individuals strengthen their economic independence and make informed choices about their futures despite ongoing challenges. 

The earthquake was not just a physical disaster; it was a severe economic shock that threatened years of progress in rebuilding livelihoods. In response, BRIDGES adapted its programming to support earthquake-affected individuals, ensuring that they had the necessary resources to recover and regain stability. One of these individuals is Mehmet, whose resilience was heavily tested by the earthquake, which destroyed his tailor shop and tragically took family members from him. 

Supported by BRIDGES IV, he received new sewing equipment, enabling him to re-establish his tailoring business, regain economic independence, and reconnect with his community. For Mehmet, the project has restored not just his livelihood, but his sense of purpose.

For many refugees, the collapse of the Assad-led government symbolises hope for freedom and the potential to rebuild their lives in Syria. However, optimism is tempered by widespread concerns about the security, governance, and living conditions in post-Assad Syria. In the face of these concerns, continued and reliable livelihoods support like that offered by BRIDGES is even more important. 

A lack of support in host countries like Türkiye may trigger early returns to Syria or movements to other countries. This can pose substantial risks to the displaced population, not only potential exposure to violence but also protection risks because of lack of services.

BRIDGES helps mitigate these risks by reducing vulnerability and creating sustainable economic opportunities. Without such programmes, many refugees might be forced into precarious situations. 

Take Rochan, a young Syrian university student in Kilis, who has found resilience in her passion for epoxy resin handicrafts. Initially constrained by a lack of resources and dependency on borrowed equipment, the project’s self-employment initiative empowered Rochan through comprehensive training and necessary assets.

For Rochan, financial independence is not just about making a living—it is about contributing to her family and securing a future. She hopes to expand her business and create employment opportunities for others in her community, demonstrating how small interventions can create a ripple effect of empowerment and economic growth.

As the future remains unpredictable for many refugees, investing in resilience is the best way to ensure stability and dignity.

Economic empowerment allows individuals to make informed choices about their futures and to reduce their vulnerability to external pressures.

BRIDGES is not just about financial assistance; it is about creating opportunities that strengthen independence and change lives.

Through this project, individuals like Mehmet and Rochan are not just surviving—they are rebuilding, contributing, and proving that resilience is the foundation of a dignified future.