Abstract:

Earthquakes, a type of natural disaster, often have destructive effects on both individuals and their living spaces. The occurrence of earthquakes damages not only people but also their shelter areas. As a result, individuals tend to migrate to safer areas compulsorily. Turkey, considered an earthquake-prone country due to its geographical location, has experienced numerous devastating earthquakes, leading to waves of migration. The resulting migration wave brings forth cultural, social, and economic issues for both earthquake victims and the regions receiving migrants. The purpose of this study is to examine earthquakes, the compulsory migration process that follows, and the potential problems that may arise after migration. While addressing the migration waves caused by earthquakes in Erzincan, Gölcük, Van, and Elazığ, the study focuses on the compulsory migration process resulting from the earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023. The significant level of destruction and devastation caused by earthquakes has contributed to the magnitude of migration movements. This forced migration, as revealed by current literature and data examinations, is discussed in terms of its dimensions, potential problems it may cause, and some suggestions are presented to address these issues.

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