Entrepreneurial Intentions among Refugees. The Case of Syrian Refugees in T rkiye

Tackling an under-explored topic in the scientific literature, with high potential and of societal relevance, the paper aims at investigating the entrepreneurial intentions of Syrian refugees in T rkiye. Drawing from the experience of 50 interviewees, the research reveals a population with strong entrepreneurial intentions, often driven by past business experience, a desire for autonomy, and the need to build a stable future in the host country. Despite generally low levels of formal education and limited role models, many interviewees possessed significant self-employment experience and demonstrated resilience, motivation, and a positive outlook on risk and challenges. Entrepreneurship was broadly perceived not only as a pathway to financial independence but also as a means of achieving social status and long-term stability within the host society. However, systemic barriers, such as restricted access to capital, language obstacles, and insufficient institutional support, remain significant challenges. A smaller group within the interviewed sample expressed resistance to entrepreneurship, citing psychological distress, a preference for security and stability over uncertainty, and lack of self-confidence or experience. The paper adds to the literature, at the same time, setting guidelines for coherent policies aimed at refugees integration