The Asylum Seekers and Refugees Solidarity Association (ARSA) is an independent, non-profit civil society organization operating in Türkiye since 2009 and officially active since 2014.

At ARSA, we are committed to human dignity, social justice, and solidarity, working closely with asylum seekers and refugees—especially from Afghanistan, Syria, Iran, and Iraq—as well as vulnerable host communities to ensure access to fundamental rights and a dignified life.

Our Mission

Our mission is to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where asylum seekers and refugees can access essential services, rebuild their lives, and live in harmony with host communities.

What We Do

With over 17 years of experience, ARSA delivers comprehensive humanitarian and development support across multiple sectors:

  • Legal and social assistance to access rights and services
  • Education and empowerment programs (language courses, vocational training, university preparation)
  • Psychosocial support and mental health services
  • Emergency aid, shelter, and cash assistance
  • Distribution of essential and hygiene items
  • Social cohesion and integration activities
  • Contribution to research, data collection, and knowledge production on migration

Our Impact

  • Reached over 181,150 refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable individuals

  • Implemented 43 projects and 370 voluntary activities

  • Partnered with 30+ national and international organizations

  • Built a volunteer network across 45+ provinces in Türkiye

  • Engaged 950+ active volunteers contributing thousands of hours

  • Achieved strong outreach with 400,000+ social media followers

Partnerships & Networks

ARSA is a founding member of the Turkish Refugee Council, working alongside more than 30 organizations in the field of refugee rights and social development.

Our key partners include:
UNHCR, UNFPA, ECHO, GIZ, BMZ, Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Terre des Hommes, Turkish Philanthropy Fund, Airbnb.org, American Councl, Support to Life, Turkish Refugees Council and many others.

 

Our Volunteer Network

One of ARSA’s greatest strengths is its extensive volunteer network. By establishing one of the first refugee-led volunteer systems in Türkiye, ARSA has built a strong bridge between refugee communities and service providers, ensuring effective outreach, guidance, translation, and support.

Our Vision

We envision a future where no refugee is left behind—
a world where all individuals, regardless of nationality or legal status, have equal access to safety, opportunity, and a life of dignity.

 

Recognition & Awards

ARSA and its leadership have received national and international recognition for their impactful work:

 HasNa Organization, headquartered in Washington, USA, known for its activities in the field of peace and economic development, has chosen ARSA founder and board member Dr. Zakira Hekmat, who is especially known for his struggle for the rights of women and girls in Turkey, Afghanistan and beyond, as HasNa's 2020 Peacebuilders of the Year.

The first award given on behalf of Angela Burdett-Coutts in the field of Migration in 2021 was given to MD. Zakira Hekmat.

In 2021, MD. Zakira Hekmat has been awarded the "Shining World Mercy Award" by Supreme Master Ching Hai (Taiwan).

In 2022, MD Zakira Hekmat was awarded the "Women of 2022" award by the SES Equality and Solidarity Association.

MD. Zakira Hekmat received the International Women of Courage Award given by the United States Department of State in 2023 at White House.

These honors reflect ARSA’s credibility, transparency, and leadership in advancing refugee rights, women’s empowerment, and social inclusion.