Courage to Rise: A Woman’s Journey of Healing her Wounds

Deniz* grew up in the Middle East in a crowded family with her sisters and brothers. Challenges came her way at a young age – at 12 years old, she was forcibly taken abroad by her father to be married.

Her mother strongly opposed the situation but was deeply fearful. That she managed to keep her daughter in school until the age of 12 was an achievement, a rarity for women in their region, conveys Deniz.

Deniz spent most of her time between school and home, dreaming of becoming a lawyer or teacher but was crushed by her reality of being in a forced marriage. Her sister suffered the same fate.

"I was forced to work and beaten. I still bear the scars of the knife wounds," Deniz recalls of her experience. Her husband would demand more money from her, which was quickly squandered on alcohol and gambling. Initially selling goods, Deniz was eventually coerced into sex work.

When she sought help from the authorities, her husband would be briefly detained and then released on bail. Feeling utterly abandoned, she attempted to take her own life thrice. Day by day, her health deteriorated. She managed to get in touch with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and receive counselling.

In desperation, she pleaded with her friends to help her escape. She managed to escape to Türkiye with their help, despite constant threats from her family.

A New Chapter Begins

When Deniz arrived in Türkiye, she once again contacted IOM and several NGOs, seeking support. Recognizing the vulnerability of her situation, IOM Türkiye provided her with essential aid, including rental assistance, furniture, clothing, and continuous psychosocial support. Today, Deniz is learning Turkish and is adapting better to her new life. Although she initially struggled financially, she expresses that she now leads a good life.

Reflecting on her past, Deniz recalls the torment she endured even after moving to Türkiye, where memories of her past continued to haunt her. Sleepless nights were common, but psychosocial support helped improve her well-being immensely. Through her Turkish classes, she made many good friends with whom she remained in contact even after the course. Over time, new friendships and social circles helped her heal. "Here, I received the support I never had. I was able to create a comfortable life with the support I got."

Overcoming Fear and Looking Ahead

Despite her progress, Deniz still fears encountering her family, especially when someone touches her shoulder or knocks on her door. Still, she is focused on completing her Turkish courses and becoming self-sufficient. "This is my only dream."

She regrets not escaping her situation sooner but urges others to find motivation to seek safety. Today, she sees families offering their children education and opportunities, a stark contrast to her own upbringing.

Deniz hopes to find a stable job after completing her studies. "I don't care what kind of job it is; I can do anything. My only wish is to stand on my own feet without depending on anyone."

Despite everything, Deniz has found the courage to rise – and is showing other women who have been through similar experiences that it is possible to heal.

Since 2009, IOM Türkiye has assisted survivors of trafficking, including through cash assistance, health assessment and treatment, temporary accommodation, transportation, basic needs (hygiene, food, newborn items), translation and legal support.

The assistance Deniz received was made possible with the financial support of the European Union.

*Name changed to protect identity.