Dunya Evimiz International Solidarity Association

Earth is Home International Solidarity Association 

Earth is Home International Solidarity Association (DED) is a non-profit organization that was established in 2016 in Ankara -Türkiye is dedicated to improving the lives of refugees and other vulnerable groups. Our organization’s mission is to provide support and assistance to refugees as they navigate the challenges of displacement and work towards rebuilding their lives in a new country. We believe that all refugees should have access to basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare, as well as education and employment opportunities. DED provides services in four key areas:protection, livelihood improvement, policy development and reporting, and fact-checking and media.

Theme 1: Protection 

DED is committed to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced migrants, particularly those from Syria, Afghanistan, and Africa. We offer case management and referral services to connect these vulnerable populations with essential services, such as food, shelter, and medical care.  Our team works closely with refugees to identify their needs and connect them with essential services, such as food, shelter, medical care, and psychosocial support to help refugees cope with the trauma of displacement and overcome the challenges of adjusting to a new environment. We also provide legal support to ensure that refugees and displaced migrants are aware of their legal rights and that these rights are protected. Our team works closely with public authorities and other NGOs to ensure that refugees and displaced migrants are able to access the support and services they need to thrive.

Theme 2: Policy Analysis and Reporting:

DED is dedicated to promoting the rights of refugees and displaced migrants through policy analysis and reporting. Our team is actively involved in organizing workshops and training sessions in various cities across Turkey to develop right-based policies towards refugees and migrants on protection and livelihood improvement.

In addition, we conduct needs assessments and prepare policy brief notes to inform decision-makers and stakeholders about the situation of refugees and displaced migrants. Also, we engage in advocacy efforts to ensure that refugees and displaced migrants have a voice in policy discussions and that their rights are protected. Our goal is to ensure that policies and programs are designed to meet the needs of these vulnerable populations and promote their rights and well-being. Through these efforts, DED is working to build a more just and equitable society for refugees and displaced migrants.

Theme 3: Livelihood Improvement

DED Association is committed to promoting the economic self-sufficiency and empowerment of refugees and displaced migrants, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups and a gender-based approach. In addition to offering vocational training and entrepreneurial support services, we are actively working on the establishment of women-led social businesses, including cooperatives and other forms of social enterprises.

Our team provides skill mapping services to identify the unique talents and strengths of each individual, developing plans for career development and entrepreneurship that capitalize on their expertise. We firmly believe that refugees and displaced migrants possess valuable skills and knowledge that can be leveraged to create sustainable livelihoods and contribute to their communities. Through these efforts, we aim to promote self-reliance and reduce dependence on aid among refugees and displaced migrants.

Theme 4: Fact Checking and Media

DED recognizes the importance of accurate information and responsible media coverage when it comes to the experiences and challenges faced by refugees and displaced migrants. Our team provides fact-checking services for media outlets and journalists to ensure that news stories are based on accurate information and not perpetuating harmful stereotypes or misinformation.

We also offer media training and support for refugees and displaced migrants, helping them to share their stories and experiences in a way that is empowering and respectful. Through these efforts, we aim to challenge negative narratives and promote a more nuanced and compassionate understanding of the refugee experience. DED is committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced migrants, and we recognize that accurate information and responsible media coverage are critical to achieving this goal.

DED collaborates with other non-governmental organizations, governments, and stakeholders to promote the well-being and integration of refugees. We work closely with local and national governments to advocate for the rights of refugees and to improve the policies and practices that affect their lives.  We have also established partnerships with various professional associations and civil society organizations such as Ankara Bar Association Refugee Rights Center, Social Service Specialists Association (SHUDER), Ibrahim Cecen Foundation (IC Foundation), Kizilay Altındağ Community Center, Refugee and Migration Research Center (IGAM), Human Resource Development Foundation (IKGV), Health Youth Association (SGYD), Turkish Medical Association (TTB), Turkish Psychologists Association (TPD), Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB), Civil Servants Association Confederation (KESK), Education and Science Workers Union (Eğitim-Sen), Health and Social Service Workers Union (SES), and Revolutionary Workers Unions Confederation (DİSK).

We have also partnered with universities such as TED University Migration Studies Department and Istanbul Bilgi University Migration Research Institute, as well as international organizations including United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), RET YKD, Project Factory, Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES), and System & Generation.

In addition, we have signed protocols with several organizations, including IC Foundation, IGAM, Ankara Bar Association Refugee Rights Center, and IKGV, to extend our collaboration and partnership efforts. Our ongoing protocols with SHUDER, TSTD, and SGYD also continue to promote our shared goals of supporting and empowering vulnerable communities.