Exploring the Role of Support Networks in Daily Life: The Case of Turkish Transnational Families across Europe

Since the beginning of Turkish labor migration to Europe in 1961, Turkish communities have developed strong support networks that sustain family cohesion, cultural identity, and resilience across generations. Support networks significantly influence the daily experiences of Turkish transnational families in Europe, providing important resources that assist them in managing the intricacies of bicultural existence. This paper explores how Turkish transnational families utilize support networks (such as consulates, migrant-oriented NGOs, social services, and educational institutions, friends, extended family, local community groups, and digital platforms) to sustain stability and resilience in their daily lives. Using 25 semi-structured interviews with Turkish transnational families living across Europe, this qualitative paper reveals how formal and informal networks impact daily life by helping families manage administrative challenges, access healthcare, and secure educational opportunities for their children. This study will uncover the role of networks on emotional and cultural well-being of transnational families. Furthermore, this study will also try to find out the daily experiences of these families on child-rearing, language retention, and celebrating cultural traditions. In addition, this study will explore digital platforms, which allow transnational families to remain closely connected with relatives in Türkiye and Turkish diaspora communities, fostering a ‘virtual homeland’ that sustains family bonds, shares cultural practices, and provides mutual support. This study highlights the integral role of these support networks in the day-to-day lives of Turkish transnational families, showing how these networks strengthen their stability and resilience. By examining the effects these networks on daily life of transnational families, this research provides valuable insights into how Turkish transnational families use support networks to maintain a stable and fulfilling life across cultural and geographical boundaries.