Anadolu Agency
Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Arinc, who is currently in Nigeria to attend D-8 meeting, shared his impressions from his visit through his Twitter account.
July 13, 2011
After a friend: Ibrahim M. Abu-Rabi
İbrahim Özdemir *
Ibrahim Abu Rabi was my friend and mentor. After quoting him in a private conversation, I heard the news that he was dead. Cahit Sıtkı was once more proved right. We do not know when death will find us and where.
Maybe for this reason, news of untimely deaths upsets us. This was the case with Ibrahim’s death, which was upsetting not only for me but also for all his Christian, Muslim and Jewish friends. We all agreed that his death was too soon.
Ibrahim Abu Rabi was my friend and mentor. After quoting him in a private conversation, I heard the news that he was dead. Cahit Sıtkı was once more proved right. We do not know when death will find us and where.
Maybe for this reason, news of untimely deaths upsets us. This was the case with Ibrahim’s death, which was upsetting not only for me but also for all his Christian, Muslim and Jewish friends. We all agreed that his death was too soon.
July 12, 2011
Fethullah Gülen's Paradox: Combining Commitment and Tolerance
Lester R. Kurtz
The paradoxical fusion by Turkish sage Fethullah Gülen of intense faith commitment with tolerance results in a paradigm of Islamic dialogue. As a movement founded to foster spiritual commitment to a faith tradition, it now reaches out to non-Muslim believers and even non-believers...
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| Fethullah Gulen |
July 11, 2011
Turkish groups call for global peace at historic İstanbul meeting
Mahir Zeynalov
Turkish intercultural and interfaith organizations from 66 countries around the globe pledged to continue efforts to contribute to global peace and dialogue in a historic gathering in İstanbul on Saturday, sharing experiences that might help guide their future dialogue activities.
Turkish intercultural and interfaith organizations from 66 countries around the globe pledged to continue efforts to contribute to global peace and dialogue in a historic gathering in İstanbul on Saturday, sharing experiences that might help guide their future dialogue activities.
July 10, 2011
A German amateur sleuth and a Turkish police inspector
Marion James
This year, the Turkish Olympiads, which have just come to a glittering conclusion, can hardly fail to have been noticed around the country.
In previous years, the gathering together of children and youth from around the world to compete in various events that demonstrate their mastery of the Turkish language seemed to be a more shy affair, with only those close to the events knowing anything about it.
This year, the Turkish Olympiads, which have just come to a glittering conclusion, can hardly fail to have been noticed around the country.
In previous years, the gathering together of children and youth from around the world to compete in various events that demonstrate their mastery of the Turkish language seemed to be a more shy affair, with only those close to the events knowing anything about it.
July 9, 2011
Why do a minority fear Hizmet [Gulen Movement]?
Martin Taylor
Before addressing the above question it’s important to first put things in perspective. The Hizmet movement (a transnational faith inspired human centric movement inspired by the Turkish Islamic scholar and peace activist Fethullah Gülen) enjoys huge support and sympathy among the Turkish people in mainland Turkey and among communities around the world where it operates. It could not otherwise deliver the services that it does – a thousand schools; even more dialogue organisations; clinics; media outlets; humanitarian aid and other charitable NGOs – in over a 130 countries around the world. Operations on this scale require a massive amount of human and financial resources, inconceivable without the sustained commitment of its participants and the support of sympathisers. Empirical research tells us that participants in Hizmet donate between 5 and 25 per cent of their annual income as well as a considerable amount of their time and know-how to Hizmet services. Others have suggested that 84 percent of Turks have a favourable opinion of Fethullah Gülen and the the movement he inspires. Both the sheer size, scale and variety of the movement’s activities and empirical research into its resource mobility prove that Fethullah Gülen and the Gulen movement enjoys the support and sympathy of the majority of the Turkish people.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
July 8, 2011
Strategic Defamation of Fethullah Gulen: English vs. Turkish (*)
Doğan Koç
Fethullah Gulen is a moderate Turkish Muslim scholar who is mostly known for his education and dialogue activities. Gulen Movement, named after him, has established hundreds of education and dialogue institutions throughout the world. Several books, hundreds of articles and news reports have been written about Gulen himself and the Movement.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
July 7, 2011
The Gülen Movement and Islam
Enes Ergene
It is important for me to underline that the Gülen movement is not an ideologically driven organization. Fethullah Gülen is against the use of religion as a political ideology. It would be wrong to perceive the Gülen movement as akin to political Islamism.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
July 6, 2011
Chandra: Improving relations to bring more Indian tourists to Turkey
Şaban Gündüz
Charge d’affaires at the Indian Embassy in Ankara AVS Ramesh Chandra has said more Indian tourists will come to visit Turkey as relations between the two nations grow stronger, with Indian visitors expected to increase from last year’s 63,000 to 90,000 this year.
Charge d’affaires at the Indian Embassy in Ankara AVS Ramesh Chandra has said more Indian tourists will come to visit Turkey as relations between the two nations grow stronger, with Indian visitors expected to increase from last year’s 63,000 to 90,000 this year.
Azerbaijani representatives scoop 21 medals in 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads
Today.Az
Azerbaijani students have gained seven gold, ten silver and four bronze medals in the 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads.
Azerbaijani students have gained seven gold, ten silver and four bronze medals in the 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads.
July 5, 2011
ROK Turkish Olympiad winner gives medal to Korean War veteran
Today's Zaman
Turkish Olympiad winner Nyeon Kwon of South Korea has given her medal and award worth TL 1,500 to a Turkish veteran of the Korean War, in a unique demonstration of loyalty, according to a Bugün report published on Sunday.
Turkish Olympiad winner Nyeon Kwon of South Korea has given her medal and award worth TL 1,500 to a Turkish veteran of the Korean War, in a unique demonstration of loyalty, according to a Bugün report published on Sunday.
Another successful Turkish Olympiads ends on a high note
Esra Maden
For 15 days, 1,000 children from 130 countries across the world came to Turkey as part of the Turkish Olympiads. They made appearances in 24 provinces from East to West, where the students mixed with each other and local people in the places they visited.
For 15 days, 1,000 children from 130 countries across the world came to Turkey as part of the Turkish Olympiads. They made appearances in 24 provinces from East to West, where the students mixed with each other and local people in the places they visited.
July 4, 2011
Fethullah Gulen’s Approach to Eliminate the Identity Crisis among Muslims
Nazila Isgandarov*
The views of Fethullah Gülen, a prominent spiritual and religious leader of moderate Muslims, have been helping Muslims in the West to integrate into their societies.
…
Since Gülen strives for political, economic, and cultural success of Muslims in the world, their identity struggle in the West is not alien to him and he offers some solutions to the identity crisis in the West. According to Fethullah Gülen, modern Western identity** was once based on the trinity of Greek thought, Roman law and Christianity and Eastern identity is based on faith and morality (Gülen, 2004f, p.148), and the Western identity should be enhanced with Eastern faith and morality (Gülen, 2005c. p. 56).
…
Since Gülen strives for political, economic, and cultural success of Muslims in the world, their identity struggle in the West is not alien to him and he offers some solutions to the identity crisis in the West. According to Fethullah Gülen, modern Western identity** was once based on the trinity of Greek thought, Roman law and Christianity and Eastern identity is based on faith and morality (Gülen, 2004f, p.148), and the Western identity should be enhanced with Eastern faith and morality (Gülen, 2005c. p. 56).
July 3, 2011
Journalists and Writers Foundation bridging Eastern, Western worlds
Alyson Neel
Nestled behind a grove of trees in Altunizade sits the Journalists and Writers Foundation (GYV), which works to span the Eastern and Western worlds much like the Bosporus Bridge.
“Turkey is in the unique geographical position of being located between the Eastern and the Western worlds,” said GYV President Mustafa Yeşil, adding: “It literally is a bridge between the cultures and religions of the East and the West. We [GYV] have played a major part in building and maintaining that bridge.”
“Turkey is in the unique geographical position of being located between the Eastern and the Western worlds,” said GYV President Mustafa Yeşil, adding: “It literally is a bridge between the cultures and religions of the East and the West. We [GYV] have played a major part in building and maintaining that bridge.”
July 2, 2011
Yearning for Fethullah Gulen of Africa
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| Fethullah Gulen |
July 1, 2011
Turkish Olympiads close with magnificent ceremony
Today's Zaman
A fabulous closing ceremony at İstanbul’s Sinan Erdem Dome for the Turkish Language Olympiads has left bittersweet memories, signaling the end of a two-week festival full of poetry, dance, Turkish culture and music.
A fabulous closing ceremony at İstanbul’s Sinan Erdem Dome for the Turkish Language Olympiads has left bittersweet memories, signaling the end of a two-week festival full of poetry, dance, Turkish culture and music.
June 30, 2011
AVEA CEO receives students of International Turkish Olympiads
Today's Zaman
Turkish mobile phone operator AVEA's CEO Erkan Akdemir received a group of students participating in the 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads on Wednesday.
Turkish mobile phone operator AVEA's CEO Erkan Akdemir received a group of students participating in the 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads on Wednesday.
June 29, 2011
Turkish Olympiads delight 80,000 in İzmir
Esra Maden
The western province of İzmir had not seen a stadium filled with such an enthusiastic crowd since the city hosted the Summer World University Games in 2005. Nearly 80,000 spectators filled Atatürk Olympic Stadium for a show held as part of the ongoing Turkish Language Olympiads, while thousands of others followed the event on giant screens set up outside the stadium and in the city square.
The western province of İzmir had not seen a stadium filled with such an enthusiastic crowd since the city hosted the Summer World University Games in 2005. Nearly 80,000 spectators filled Atatürk Olympic Stadium for a show held as part of the ongoing Turkish Language Olympiads, while thousands of others followed the event on giant screens set up outside the stadium and in the city square.
June 28, 2011
Turkish Olympiad students takes stage at Şanlıurfa festival
Today's Zaman
As part of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads, Şanlıurfa festival took place at the GAP Stadium with 30,000 attendees on Sunday. As part of 24 festivals held in different provinces of Turkey, 54 international students from 18 different countries, performed at the GAP Stadium in Şanlıurfa.
As part of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads, Şanlıurfa festival took place at the GAP Stadium with 30,000 attendees on Sunday. As part of 24 festivals held in different provinces of Turkey, 54 international students from 18 different countries, performed at the GAP Stadium in Şanlıurfa.
Rain, a great experience for some kids at Turkish Olympiads
İbrahim Asalıoğlu
Some of the participants of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads that hail from warmer climates, such as Ahoud Al Afefi (11) and Maha Al Kadi (11) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where rainfall occurs only once or twice a year, say they were thrilled about the rainfall that welcomed them in Ankara's Kızılcahamam district, where one section of the Olympiads was held.
Some of the participants of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads that hail from warmer climates, such as Ahoud Al Afefi (11) and Maha Al Kadi (11) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where rainfall occurs only once or twice a year, say they were thrilled about the rainfall that welcomed them in Ankara's Kızılcahamam district, where one section of the Olympiads was held.
June 27, 2011
Turkish Olympiads gets full score from the Turkish capital
Today's Zaman
The foreign students who participated in the ninth International Turkish Olympiads visited statesmen in the Turkish capital of Ankara throughout the past week and were praised at all their visits to various institutions.
June 26, 2011
Award ceremony held in 9th International Turkish Olympiads
Anadolu Agency
An award ceremony has taken place in Turkish capital Ankara as part of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads.
An award ceremony has taken place in Turkish capital Ankara as part of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads.
Turkish becomes language of peace thanks to Olympiads
Esra Maden
When the 1st International Turkish Language Olympiads were launched in 2003 by Dilset, a publishing house, the goal was to reward students who excel in learning Turkish and to courage others.
Back then, 62 students from 17 countries took part in the event. Since 2006 the International Turkish Education Association (TÜRKÇEDER), a civil society organization, has undertaken the job of holding the Olympiads. Currently, the event continues in its ninth edition across Turkey with a boost in the number of participating nations and students. One thousand students representing 130 countries are taking part in the Olympiads this year.
When the 1st International Turkish Language Olympiads were launched in 2003 by Dilset, a publishing house, the goal was to reward students who excel in learning Turkish and to courage others.
Back then, 62 students from 17 countries took part in the event. Since 2006 the International Turkish Education Association (TÜRKÇEDER), a civil society organization, has undertaken the job of holding the Olympiads. Currently, the event continues in its ninth edition across Turkey with a boost in the number of participating nations and students. One thousand students representing 130 countries are taking part in the Olympiads this year.
June 25, 2011
Grammar biggest challenge for Turkish learners
Esra Maden
Learning a language is a challenge, though an exciting one for many, and every language brings along its unique challenges for learners. Some may find conjugating verbs particularly difficult in Spanish while it might be easy for others, and the pronunciation of words may be the biggest difficulty for a learner of English.
Learning a language is a challenge, though an exciting one for many, and every language brings along its unique challenges for learners. Some may find conjugating verbs particularly difficult in Spanish while it might be easy for others, and the pronunciation of words may be the biggest difficulty for a learner of English.
Olympiads students compete in song contest in own languages
İbrahim Asalıoğlu
Students who travelled to Turkey for the 9th International Turkish Olympiads, in which they perform in Turkish, on Friday participated in a song contest, singing songs in their native languages.
Students who travelled to Turkey for the 9th International Turkish Olympiads, in which they perform in Turkish, on Friday participated in a song contest, singing songs in their native languages.
Ankara hosts Turkish language contest
An annual World Turkish language contest is being held in Turkey with hundreds of pupils from Turkish schools around the world taking part in it. Kazakhstan is represented by 33 pupils from Kazakh-Turkish high schools at this prestigious educational event. Before getting there, they made it through a tough and competitive selection process.
June 24, 2011
‘Action plan' put into action in propaganda websites
Serkan Sağlam
According to a report sent to the İstanbul 13th High Criminal Court by the İstanbul Police Department around two weeks ago, the Action Plan to Fight Reactionaryism, a suspected military plot to discredit the governing Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the faith-based Gülen movement, was put into action on a number of websites that are believed to have been set up by the General Staff to support the Turkish Armed Forces' (TSK) propaganda campaigns against civilian groups.
According to a report sent to the İstanbul 13th High Criminal Court by the İstanbul Police Department around two weeks ago, the Action Plan to Fight Reactionaryism, a suspected military plot to discredit the governing Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the faith-based Gülen movement, was put into action on a number of websites that are believed to have been set up by the General Staff to support the Turkish Armed Forces' (TSK) propaganda campaigns against civilian groups.
June 23, 2011
Italian students find relief in Turkish
Esra Maden
In a southern Italian high school, many students have deemed the introduction of Turkish classes as an effort in vain because of the language's supposed difficulty due to what they mistakenly thought was caused by the use of the Arabic alphabet.
In a southern Italian high school, many students have deemed the introduction of Turkish classes as an effort in vain because of the language's supposed difficulty due to what they mistakenly thought was caused by the use of the Arabic alphabet.
Turkish Olympiads and Sinan Çetin
Nazlı Ilıcak
It is impossible for one watching the Turkish Olympiads not be moved by it. Students coming from different parts of the world are signing songs and reciting poems in Turkish.
It is impossible for one watching the Turkish Olympiads not be moved by it. Students coming from different parts of the world are signing songs and reciting poems in Turkish.
Turkish Olympiads poetry competition finalists stun audience, Georgia wins
Today's Zaman
Foreign students in 9th International Turkish Olympiads poetry final leg won hearts of Turks with their what they called “splendid performance” on Wednesday night. A Georgian student became first in the competition.
Foreign students in 9th International Turkish Olympiads poetry final leg won hearts of Turks with their what they called “splendid performance” on Wednesday night. A Georgian student became first in the competition.
June 22, 2011
Students fascinate audience in Turkish Olympiads song final
Today's Zaman
Foreign students who participated in the song final of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads on Tuesday fascinated thousands of spectators with their performances in Turkish. A student from Tajikistan came first in the competition.
Foreign students who participated in the song final of the 9th International Turkish Olympiads on Tuesday fascinated thousands of spectators with their performances in Turkish. A student from Tajikistan came first in the competition.
Prestigious Turkish Olympiad song award goes to Tajik student
Today's Zaman
Tajik student received a prestigious song award on Tuesday night in İstanbul where youth from dozens of nations have displayed superb and stunning performances in now world-famous Turkish language contest that has been able to attract millions across the globe.
Tajik student received a prestigious song award on Tuesday night in İstanbul where youth from dozens of nations have displayed superb and stunning performances in now world-famous Turkish language contest that has been able to attract millions across the globe.
Turkey's Deputy Premier says Turkish education volunteers reach countries off the map
Anadolu Agency
Turkey's deputy premier said on Monday that Turkish education volunteers carried out successful activities in the farthest places in the world.
Turkey's deputy premier said on Monday that Turkish education volunteers carried out successful activities in the farthest places in the world.
Cultures of the world meet at Ankara festival
Esra Maden
Ankara's Altınpark hosted an important cultural festival as part of the 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads this weekend. It was a unique opportunity to see a diversity of cultures represented by children and teenagers from around the world, and Ankara residents did not miss the chance to participate in a festival where 130 countries came together in their city. From toddlers to elders, Altınpark was filled with enthusiastic visitors who had come to witness a celebration of cultures and the Turkish language.
Ankara's Altınpark hosted an important cultural festival as part of the 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads this weekend. It was a unique opportunity to see a diversity of cultures represented by children and teenagers from around the world, and Ankara residents did not miss the chance to participate in a festival where 130 countries came together in their city. From toddlers to elders, Altınpark was filled with enthusiastic visitors who had come to witness a celebration of cultures and the Turkish language.
June 21, 2011
Runner-up Olympiad performers enjoy touring Turkey
Esra Maden
Missing out on a coveted first place finish might not seem like it would be the best thing to happen to would-be participants in the Turkish Language Olympiads, but it has turned out to be an award in itself as this is how they had the chance to take a mini tour of Turkey.
Students from all around the world who were runners-up in competitions in their native lands to earn a berth at the Turkish Language Olympiads were invited to Turkey to display their talents in several Turkish provinces, stretching from East to West.
Students from all around the world who were runners-up in competitions in their native lands to earn a berth at the Turkish Language Olympiads were invited to Turkey to display their talents in several Turkish provinces, stretching from East to West.
Turkish Olympiads built on legacy of linguistic, cultural interaction
Mesut Çevikalp
Some 1,000 students from 130 countries have come to Turkey to attend the Ninth International Turkish Olympics. Students from different cultures are bringing their poems, songs and folk dances to the Turkish language festival.
This year’s Olympiads, themed after Yunus Emre’s famous call, “Come and let’s get acquainted,” are much more colorful. In line with this year’s theme, students are expected to promote their own culture along with Turkish language and culture.
This year’s Olympiads, themed after Yunus Emre’s famous call, “Come and let’s get acquainted,” are much more colorful. In line with this year’s theme, students are expected to promote their own culture along with Turkish language and culture.
June 20, 2011
One language equals 7 billion people
Ekrem Dumanlı
The heading for this article belongs to the Vietnam Agency, the company that produced those wonderful advertorials for the Turkish Language Olympiads.
With information they gained after receiving the summary for the preparations of this year’s Olympiads, this was the slogan the agency had proposed. However, the organizing committee decided to use Yunus Emre’s famous call: “Come and Let’s Get Acquainted.” And this is a good development. Yunus’ sincere, concise and heartfelt call conveys the message of the Turkish Olympiads well.
With information they gained after receiving the summary for the preparations of this year’s Olympiads, this was the slogan the agency had proposed. However, the organizing committee decided to use Yunus Emre’s famous call: “Come and Let’s Get Acquainted.” And this is a good development. Yunus’ sincere, concise and heartfelt call conveys the message of the Turkish Olympiads well.
June 19, 2011
Which Turks hate Israel most
Mustafa Akyol
There was an interesting story in the Daily News last week, about the cancelling of a Yuval Ron concert in Istanbul. Mr. Ron, an award-wining Israeli musician, was supposed to play his tunes in a Sultanahmet hall, but the event was cancelled at the last minute due to protests, and, allegedly, some “threats.” The organization holding the protest – but denied any threat – was the famous Humanitarian Relief Foundation, or İHH, that organized last year’s controversial Freedom Flotilla to Gaza, which was lethally raided by Israeli commandos.
There was an interesting story in the Daily News last week, about the cancelling of a Yuval Ron concert in Istanbul. Mr. Ron, an award-wining Israeli musician, was supposed to play his tunes in a Sultanahmet hall, but the event was cancelled at the last minute due to protests, and, allegedly, some “threats.” The organization holding the protest – but denied any threat – was the famous Humanitarian Relief Foundation, or İHH, that organized last year’s controversial Freedom Flotilla to Gaza, which was lethally raided by Israeli commandos.
June 18, 2011
Fethullah Gulen: Society not divided into Kemalists, Muslims in Turkey
Today's Zaman
There is no division in Turkish society between Kemalists and Muslims, and all citizens of Turkey know very well how to coexist with others coming from different religions, races and languages thanks to their roots in an old empire, the Ottoman Empire, according to internationally renowned Turkish intellectual and scholar Fethullah Gülen.
There is no division in Turkish society between Kemalists and Muslims, and all citizens of Turkey know very well how to coexist with others coming from different religions, races and languages thanks to their roots in an old empire, the Ottoman Empire, according to internationally renowned Turkish intellectual and scholar Fethullah Gülen.
June 17, 2011
Yemeni teenagers’ bodies in Turkey, their minds in home country
Esra Maden
The Turkish Olympiads continue in earnest with a cultural festival in Ankara. Among the 1,000 students in attendance from across the world are teenagers from the countries where the Arab Spring is taking place. As they enjoy a unique opportunity in a faraway land, their minds are not far from their countries.
The Turkish Olympiads continue in earnest with a cultural festival in Ankara. Among the 1,000 students in attendance from across the world are teenagers from the countries where the Arab Spring is taking place. As they enjoy a unique opportunity in a faraway land, their minds are not far from their countries.
Children flock to Turkey for Turkish Olympics
Hurriyet Daily News
Nearly 1,000 children from around the world gathered in Turkey for the opening of the ninth International Turkish Olympics on Wednesday in preparation for competitions in which they will display their proficiency in the language.
Nearly 1,000 children from around the world gathered in Turkey for the opening of the ninth International Turkish Olympics on Wednesday in preparation for competitions in which they will display their proficiency in the language.
Turkish language festival starts with glorious opening near Bosporus
Esra Maden
The Turkish language is taking the stage in the ninth edition of the International Turkish Olympiads, which kicked off Wednesday night with a glorious opening ceremony at Dolmabahçe Palace along İstanbul's scenic Bosporus.
The Turkish language is taking the stage in the ninth edition of the International Turkish Olympiads, which kicked off Wednesday night with a glorious opening ceremony at Dolmabahçe Palace along İstanbul's scenic Bosporus.
June 16, 2011
What Erdogan’s win means to Pakistan, Afghanistan
Naveed Ahmad
Turkey’s June 12 polls indicate that the country is moving towards two-party system with Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Adalet Ve Kalkinma Partisi (AKP) increasing its vote bank by 5 million since the last 2007 elections and opposition party Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi (CHP) emerging strong with additional 3.5 million votes.
The AKP has won unprecedented 50 percent votes and secured 326 seats in 550-member parliament. The opposition party, CHP, bagged 25.9 per cent votes and attained 135 seats.
Turkey’s June 12 polls indicate that the country is moving towards two-party system with Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Adalet Ve Kalkinma Partisi (AKP) increasing its vote bank by 5 million since the last 2007 elections and opposition party Cumhuriyet Halk Partisi (CHP) emerging strong with additional 3.5 million votes.
The AKP has won unprecedented 50 percent votes and secured 326 seats in 550-member parliament. The opposition party, CHP, bagged 25.9 per cent votes and attained 135 seats.
June 15, 2011
Turkey's election & Arab Spring
Atul Aneja
By showing that piety can coexist, if not thrive, with entrepreneurship, hard work and liberal democracy, Turkey has illuminated a path that the depressed youth in West Asia and beyond can pursue.
Turks in their millions headed for the polls on June 12 to participate in a crucial parliamentary election which is likely to have a strong bearing on not only the country's immediate future but also on millions outside, who are in the midst of an “Arab Spring.” Capturing the spirit of a series of bold pro-democracy uprisings in West Asia and North Africa, the Arab Spring promises to liberate vast multitudes in the region — from a stifling era of authoritarian rule.
By showing that piety can coexist, if not thrive, with entrepreneurship, hard work and liberal democracy, Turkey has illuminated a path that the depressed youth in West Asia and beyond can pursue.
Turks in their millions headed for the polls on June 12 to participate in a crucial parliamentary election which is likely to have a strong bearing on not only the country's immediate future but also on millions outside, who are in the midst of an “Arab Spring.” Capturing the spirit of a series of bold pro-democracy uprisings in West Asia and North Africa, the Arab Spring promises to liberate vast multitudes in the region — from a stifling era of authoritarian rule.
June 14, 2011
The Gülen Movement, Dialogue, and Tolerance
Enes Ergene
Tolerance[1] and dialogue are among the most basic and broad dynamics of the Gülen movement. These two concepts, first developed on a small scale, have turned into a search for a culture of reconciliation on a world scale. Today, the idea of different groups peacefully living together is a philosophical issue that modern states are trying to formulate. The international relations of past empires were founded on conflict and war. Different civilizations were separated by thick walls, which were supported by political, ideological, and religious identities. Inevitably, this led to conflict. During the long Middle Ages, international relations were governed by a "law of engagement," which allowed for little space to express religious or ethnic differentiation. The domestic laws of states and empires were not exempt from this philosophy. Throughout the Middle Ages, humankind's struggle for civilization found expression in aggressive and passionate conflict. Today, with new concepts brought by globalization, the search for dialogue between civilizations and cultures has entered a new phase.
Tolerance[1] and dialogue are among the most basic and broad dynamics of the Gülen movement. These two concepts, first developed on a small scale, have turned into a search for a culture of reconciliation on a world scale. Today, the idea of different groups peacefully living together is a philosophical issue that modern states are trying to formulate. The international relations of past empires were founded on conflict and war. Different civilizations were separated by thick walls, which were supported by political, ideological, and religious identities. Inevitably, this led to conflict. During the long Middle Ages, international relations were governed by a "law of engagement," which allowed for little space to express religious or ethnic differentiation. The domestic laws of states and empires were not exempt from this philosophy. Throughout the Middle Ages, humankind's struggle for civilization found expression in aggressive and passionate conflict. Today, with new concepts brought by globalization, the search for dialogue between civilizations and cultures has entered a new phase.
June 13, 2011
Islamic Liberalism -- The Challenges Facing the AKP
Ahmad Ali Khalid*
Muslim democrats and liberals are looking at the recent Turkish elections with a sense of anticipation and expectation.
Is the Justice and Development Party (AKP) now going to evolve further to extend its discourse of liberal democracy, human rights, economic liberalization and modernization couched within a certain cosmopolitan and pluralist Islamic ethos or has this great political experiment run its course?
Muslim democrats and liberals are looking at the recent Turkish elections with a sense of anticipation and expectation.
Is the Justice and Development Party (AKP) now going to evolve further to extend its discourse of liberal democracy, human rights, economic liberalization and modernization couched within a certain cosmopolitan and pluralist Islamic ethos or has this great political experiment run its course?
June 12, 2011
Hira magazine changes perception of Turkey in the Arab world
Serhat Şeftali
Hira has been bringing together Turkey and the Arab world for six years. Actually, it would be correct to describe it as a platform, rather than a magazine. However, it is not very popular in Turkey, where only 3,000 copies out of the 40,000 printed are sold.
The remaining 37,000 are distributed to intellectuals in the Arab world via subscriptions. The Arab world has been able to connect with Turkey through Hira magazine for the last five years. With a number of workshops in Arab countries, more than 25 symposia and other similar events, Hira magazine has attracted the attendance and participation of more than 2,500 Arab scholars and intellectuals. We spoke with the editor-in-chief of the magazine, Nevzat Savaş, who spends most of his time in the Arab world, before his departure for a meeting.
Hira has been bringing together Turkey and the Arab world for six years. Actually, it would be correct to describe it as a platform, rather than a magazine. However, it is not very popular in Turkey, where only 3,000 copies out of the 40,000 printed are sold.
The remaining 37,000 are distributed to intellectuals in the Arab world via subscriptions. The Arab world has been able to connect with Turkey through Hira magazine for the last five years. With a number of workshops in Arab countries, more than 25 symposia and other similar events, Hira magazine has attracted the attendance and participation of more than 2,500 Arab scholars and intellectuals. We spoke with the editor-in-chief of the magazine, Nevzat Savaş, who spends most of his time in the Arab world, before his departure for a meeting.
June 11, 2011
130 countries to be represented at 9th Turkish Olympiads
Today's Zaman
The 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads will be held with contestants coming from 130 countries.
The Olympiads are organized by the International Turkish Education Association (TÜRKÇEDER). The introductory meeting for the Olympiads was held in Taksim Ceylan InterContinental Otel. The association has produced various commercial films for the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe which were shown in the introductory meeting.
The 9th International Turkish Language Olympiads will be held with contestants coming from 130 countries.
The Olympiads are organized by the International Turkish Education Association (TÜRKÇEDER). The introductory meeting for the Olympiads was held in Taksim Ceylan InterContinental Otel. The association has produced various commercial films for the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe which were shown in the introductory meeting.
June 10, 2011
Fethullah Gulen Suggests Nonviolent Options to Young Activists
Nuriye Akman
Elizabeth Ozdalga is a Swede who has been living in Turkey for the past 30 years. Her husband, Haluk Ozdalga, is a member of the Republican People's Party (CHP) administrative staff. Mrs. Ozdalga received a scholarship from the Education Ministry when she came to Turkey in the early 1970s.
Elizabeth Ozdalga is a Swede who has been living in Turkey for the past 30 years. Her husband, Haluk Ozdalga, is a member of the Republican People's Party (CHP) administrative staff. Mrs. Ozdalga received a scholarship from the Education Ministry when she came to Turkey in the early 1970s.
June 9, 2011
CHP insults AK Party, voters with provocative banner
Resul Cengiz
The main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) has come under fire once again with a banner it displayed in one of its election offices in Denizli, which featured a caricature in which Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was depicted as a sultan driving a train and a group of Justice and Development Party (AK Party) voters as passengers in the wagons of the train.
The main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) has come under fire once again with a banner it displayed in one of its election offices in Denizli, which featured a caricature in which Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was depicted as a sultan driving a train and a group of Justice and Development Party (AK Party) voters as passengers in the wagons of the train.
June 8, 2011
Bahçeli's comments on Fethullah Gülen to likely cost MHP votes in Erzurum
Abdullah Bozkurt
Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli's attacks on leading Turkish Muslim scholar Fethullah Gülen during election rally speeches has had a major disenfranchising impact on his potential voters in Erzurum province in eastern Turkey, the birthplace of Mr. Gülen himself.
Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli's attacks on leading Turkish Muslim scholar Fethullah Gülen during election rally speeches has had a major disenfranchising impact on his potential voters in Erzurum province in eastern Turkey, the birthplace of Mr. Gülen himself.
June 7, 2011
Fethullah Gülen and the 'People of the Book'; A Voice from Turkey for Interfaith Dialogue
Dr. Zeki Saritoprak * & Dr. Sidney Griffith **
The term "People of the Book" or Ahl al-kitab is mentioned in the Qur'an twenty-four times, referring to Christians and Jews in particular. The context of these Qur'anic references varies. Some of these verses praise the People of the Book for their righteousness and good deeds and faith in the Afterlife (Qur'an 3.113). Other verses rebuke the People of the Book for not following the way of God (Qur'an 3.99). A group of these verses invite the People of the Book to a common ground between Muslims and themselves (Qur'an 3.64). Another group of these verses indicates an intimate relationship between Muslims and Christians (Qur'an 5.82). The relationship between Muslims and the People of the Book, Jews and Christians, has been a subject of discussion among Muslims throughout the centuries. Islam's long-time ecumenical roots are easily traced to the famous verse in the Qur'an:
The term "People of the Book" or Ahl al-kitab is mentioned in the Qur'an twenty-four times, referring to Christians and Jews in particular. The context of these Qur'anic references varies. Some of these verses praise the People of the Book for their righteousness and good deeds and faith in the Afterlife (Qur'an 3.113). Other verses rebuke the People of the Book for not following the way of God (Qur'an 3.99). A group of these verses invite the People of the Book to a common ground between Muslims and themselves (Qur'an 3.64). Another group of these verses indicates an intimate relationship between Muslims and Christians (Qur'an 5.82). The relationship between Muslims and the People of the Book, Jews and Christians, has been a subject of discussion among Muslims throughout the centuries. Islam's long-time ecumenical roots are easily traced to the famous verse in the Qur'an:
June 6, 2011
The Kimse Yok Mu operations orientation program was held in Ankara
Kimse Yok Mu launched a reception to present how it carries out projects all around the world on the evening of May 23 in Ankara. Selma Aliye Kavaf, Turkish Minister of State, senior bureaucrats and government officials joined the participated in the program and were given information about the organization's activities, especially in the international arena.
June 5, 2011
Genes of Turkish media, clichés of the West
Abdülhamit Bilici
Mehmet Ali Birand, who has been serving in the Turkish media for many years, recently made some historic confessions on the negative role journalists played in coups that undermined democracy in Turkey, saying, ““Yes, we did have pro-coup thoughts in our genes...”
June 4, 2011
Birand: General Staff ordered broadcasting of anti-Fethullah Gülen recordings
Today's Zaman
Journalist Mehmet Ali Birand has claimed that the General Staff ordered the broadcasting of anti-Fethullah Gülen audio recordings by some TV stations in the run up to the Feb. 28, 1997 unarmed military intervention.
In 1997, uneasy with the presence of a conservative party -- the Welfare Party (RP) -- in government, the General Staff forced the party to step down. The event has since come to be known as the “postmodern coup.” The RP was later closed down.
In 1997, uneasy with the presence of a conservative party -- the Welfare Party (RP) -- in government, the General Staff forced the party to step down. The event has since come to be known as the “postmodern coup.” The RP was later closed down.
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