Kimse Yok Mu
The flood disaster has paralyzed life in the Pacific country Thailand. KYM continues it's help activities during Kurban holiday and has sent $20,000 to Thailand. 10 national newspapers and 8 television channels presented the donation as flash news and Thailand government officials showed their gratitude.
November 28, 2011
November 27, 2011
Dispensing with the Turkish model
İhsan Yılmaz
CAIRO - After learning that I was in Egypt not only for research but also for academic collaboration, the manager in the famous Al Burg restaurant told me that Egypt and Turkey also need to collaborate, but it should be on the basis of equality not Turkey's imposition of its model on Egypt.
That seems to be a sentiment shared by many Egyptians. Almost all of them are curious about the Turkish experience, but they are quick to underline that the Egyptian case is different. The people I have spoken to -- ranging from the old elite to Hizb al-Wasat members, from independent intellectuals to Ikhwan activists -- gave me the impression that they were not happy with an imposition of a model on their country that they suspected has some Western backing too.
CAIRO - After learning that I was in Egypt not only for research but also for academic collaboration, the manager in the famous Al Burg restaurant told me that Egypt and Turkey also need to collaborate, but it should be on the basis of equality not Turkey's imposition of its model on Egypt.
That seems to be a sentiment shared by many Egyptians. Almost all of them are curious about the Turkish experience, but they are quick to underline that the Egyptian case is different. The people I have spoken to -- ranging from the old elite to Hizb al-Wasat members, from independent intellectuals to Ikhwan activists -- gave me the impression that they were not happy with an imposition of a model on their country that they suspected has some Western backing too.
November 26, 2011
Fethullah Gulen: Dervish of Our Times
Prof. Qazi Obaidur Rehman Hashmi *
Fethullah Gulen is a renowned and distinguished scholar of Islam having broad and in-depth knowledge of world history, politics and philosophy, besides having a comprehensive vision of world religions and religious movements. The main theme of his numerous writings and discourses, is interfaith dialogue which has assumed special significance in the backdrop of ideas like the end of history and clash of civilizations.
Fethullah Gulen is a renowned and distinguished scholar of Islam having broad and in-depth knowledge of world history, politics and philosophy, besides having a comprehensive vision of world religions and religious movements. The main theme of his numerous writings and discourses, is interfaith dialogue which has assumed special significance in the backdrop of ideas like the end of history and clash of civilizations.
November 25, 2011
Turkish Schools have changed the view against white people in Africa
Cihan Yenilmez / Ayten Çiftçi
African leaders, gathered in Istanbul, spoke highly of the Turkish schools that have captured the praise of plenty with voluntary education in Africa as well as many other countries. The ex-president of Comoros Abdallah Mohamed Sambi in whose country there is not a Turkish School, said: “Turkish Schools have changed the way Africans see the white people and I can’t wait to see a Turkish School in my own country”.
African leaders, gathered in Istanbul, spoke highly of the Turkish schools that have captured the praise of plenty with voluntary education in Africa as well as many other countries. The ex-president of Comoros Abdallah Mohamed Sambi in whose country there is not a Turkish School, said: “Turkish Schools have changed the way Africans see the white people and I can’t wait to see a Turkish School in my own country”.
November 24, 2011
Fethullah Gülen and the Kurdish Issue
Ergun Babahan
If you did not have a chance to watch Fethullah Gulen’s latest speech on Herkul.org, I really recommend that you do. Gulen is not only a preacher but also a very important social figure.
He ponders over many issues that range from faith to ethnic problems in Turkey.
If you did not have a chance to watch Fethullah Gulen’s latest speech on Herkul.org, I really recommend that you do. Gulen is not only a preacher but also a very important social figure.
He ponders over many issues that range from faith to ethnic problems in Turkey.
November 23, 2011
‘Africa's problems can be solved with Turkey-led commission’
Cihan Yenilmez / Ayten Çiftçi
African leaders called for the establishment of a Turkey-led commission to work toward solving the continent's complex issues during a summit in İstanbul on Monday.
The “Second African Summit of Muslim Religious Leaders,” organized by Turkey's Religious Affairs Directorate and bringing together 125 religious leaders from 46 countries, began Monday at the Conrad Hotel in İstanbul.
African leaders called for the establishment of a Turkey-led commission to work toward solving the continent's complex issues during a summit in İstanbul on Monday.
The “Second African Summit of Muslim Religious Leaders,” organized by Turkey's Religious Affairs Directorate and bringing together 125 religious leaders from 46 countries, began Monday at the Conrad Hotel in İstanbul.
November 22, 2011
White House praises Rumi Forum for advocating interfaith dialogue
Ali H. Aslan
The White House, on its official website, commended the Washington-based Rumi Forum, an international organization promoting interfaith dialogue and peace, for its work in fostering “inter-religious and intercultural understanding” in a “consistent” manner since its establishment in 1999.
The White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, in a statement on its blog, said, “We were honored to attend the 2011 Rumi Peace and Dialogue Awards, the Turkish American organization's annual celebration of leadership towards global harmony.”
The White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, in a statement on its blog, said, “We were honored to attend the 2011 Rumi Peace and Dialogue Awards, the Turkish American organization's annual celebration of leadership towards global harmony.”
November 21, 2011
‘Inception,’ the Gülen community and the PKK
Kurtuluş Tayiz *
I have been following anti-Fethullah Gülen broadcasts in the Kurdish media for some time now. Television stations, newspapers and Internet sites known for their closeness to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) have incessantly been spreading hostility amongst its readers against Gülen.
It wouldn’t be so difficult to understand if most of these publications remained within the acceptable limits of criticism (regardless of how harsh or how much that criticism might be). But the PKK has virtually put the Kurdish question aside to wage a war on the Gülen community. The PKK leaders have declared the Gülen community the “biggest enemy of the Kurdish people.” Individuals and organizations said to be close to the community have been included on the PKK’s list of targets.
I have been following anti-Fethullah Gülen broadcasts in the Kurdish media for some time now. Television stations, newspapers and Internet sites known for their closeness to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) have incessantly been spreading hostility amongst its readers against Gülen.
It wouldn’t be so difficult to understand if most of these publications remained within the acceptable limits of criticism (regardless of how harsh or how much that criticism might be). But the PKK has virtually put the Kurdish question aside to wage a war on the Gülen community. The PKK leaders have declared the Gülen community the “biggest enemy of the Kurdish people.” Individuals and organizations said to be close to the community have been included on the PKK’s list of targets.
November 20, 2011
Toward a culture of coexistence
İhsan Yılmaz
ABUJA, NIGERIA -- I am currently attending a conference titled “Establishing a Culture of Coexistence and Mutual Understanding.” As the conference organizers rightly underline, Nigeria is an important and relevant place for this conference not only because of its cultural, linguistic, ethnic and religious diversity, but also because it is where volunteers of the Hizmet movement inspired by Fethullah Gülen's ideas have established 16 schools, a university and a hospital.
ABUJA, NIGERIA -- I am currently attending a conference titled “Establishing a Culture of Coexistence and Mutual Understanding.” As the conference organizers rightly underline, Nigeria is an important and relevant place for this conference not only because of its cultural, linguistic, ethnic and religious diversity, but also because it is where volunteers of the Hizmet movement inspired by Fethullah Gülen's ideas have established 16 schools, a university and a hospital.
November 19, 2011
Conference endorses Gülen’s ideas as guides for Nigerian education system
Kerim Balcı
An international conference organized by the Ufuk Dialogue Foundation and The Fountain magazine under the auspices of the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Education and six Nigerian universities endorsed Fethullah Gülen’s ideas on a culture of coexistence and mutual understanding as among guiding principles of the Nigerian education system.
The first day of the conference titled “Establishing a Culture of Coexistence and Mutual Understanding: Exploring Fethullah Gülen’s Thought and Action” on Friday attracted to the conference hall of the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, more than 300 statesmen and intellectuals including Nigerian Federal Minister of Education Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai and Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria Ali Rıfat Köksal. Professor Kyari Muhammad, a member of the local organizing committee read a special message from Gülen.
An international conference organized by the Ufuk Dialogue Foundation and The Fountain magazine under the auspices of the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Education and six Nigerian universities endorsed Fethullah Gülen’s ideas on a culture of coexistence and mutual understanding as among guiding principles of the Nigerian education system.
The first day of the conference titled “Establishing a Culture of Coexistence and Mutual Understanding: Exploring Fethullah Gülen’s Thought and Action” on Friday attracted to the conference hall of the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, more than 300 statesmen and intellectuals including Nigerian Federal Minister of Education Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai and Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria Ali Rıfat Köksal. Professor Kyari Muhammad, a member of the local organizing committee read a special message from Gülen.
November 18, 2011
Troubled Nigeria discusses Gülen’s ‘culture of coexistence’
Kerim Balcı
Nigeria, which has been plagued by interfaith and intercultural conflict for some time now, is hosting a conference today and tomorrow discussing Turkish scholar Fethullah Gülen’s ideas and activities on establishing a culture of coexistence and mutual understanding.
The Abuja-based Ufuk Dialogue Foundation and The Fountain magazine representatives informed the local media about a conference at which Fethullah Gülen’s ideas and activities on establishing a culture of coexistence and mutual understanding will be discussed.
Nigeria, which has been plagued by interfaith and intercultural conflict for some time now, is hosting a conference today and tomorrow discussing Turkish scholar Fethullah Gülen’s ideas and activities on establishing a culture of coexistence and mutual understanding.
The Abuja-based Ufuk Dialogue Foundation and The Fountain magazine representatives informed the local media about a conference at which Fethullah Gülen’s ideas and activities on establishing a culture of coexistence and mutual understanding will be discussed.
Where is the other half in the Kurdish question?
İhsan Yılmaz
Very few people in Turkey can deny that it was the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) that sabotaged the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) government's Kurdish opening attempts. The Habur incident was a clear PKK-orchestrated provocation that abused the bona fide intentions of officials. Just one week after Abdullah Öcalan declared that peace was near, out of the blue, for unknown reasons, the PKK started killing innocent civilians in the streets.
Very few people in Turkey can deny that it was the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) that sabotaged the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) government's Kurdish opening attempts. The Habur incident was a clear PKK-orchestrated provocation that abused the bona fide intentions of officials. Just one week after Abdullah Öcalan declared that peace was near, out of the blue, for unknown reasons, the PKK started killing innocent civilians in the streets.
November 17, 2011
Fethullah Gülen’s views, concern for Kurdish problem nothing new, report shows
Today's Zaman
Contrary to claims that renowned Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has only just begun to put forward some proposals for the solution of Turkey’s long-standing Kurdish question, a collection of works published in this week’s Aksiyon magazine demonstrates that Gülen has been voicing his views and proposals on the subject since the early 1990s.
In a speech broadcast on the herkul.org website in late October, Gülen expressed his grief over the deaths of dozens of security members in terrorist attacks in the country’s Southeast while expressing his views about what measures should be taken for the peaceful resolution of the Kurdish and terrorism problem.
Contrary to claims that renowned Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has only just begun to put forward some proposals for the solution of Turkey’s long-standing Kurdish question, a collection of works published in this week’s Aksiyon magazine demonstrates that Gülen has been voicing his views and proposals on the subject since the early 1990s.
In a speech broadcast on the herkul.org website in late October, Gülen expressed his grief over the deaths of dozens of security members in terrorist attacks in the country’s Southeast while expressing his views about what measures should be taken for the peaceful resolution of the Kurdish and terrorism problem.
November 16, 2011
A Feb. 28 tactic from the PKK
Bülent Korucu
These days, the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) media is using a tactic to strike a blow at Fethullah Gülen that resembles one once used by the Feb. 28 supporters.
The Feb. 28 media, using a sort of cut-and-paste method with various sermons and discussions that have taken place, created lots of material for a lynching campaign. We could offer up lots of examples, but the most striking of them was this: While Gülen once actually said, “You cannot tell the CHP [main opposition Republican People’s Party] supporters to go to hell,” his words were manipulated to look like he said, “Let the CHP supporters go to hell.”
These days, the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) media is using a tactic to strike a blow at Fethullah Gülen that resembles one once used by the Feb. 28 supporters.
The Feb. 28 media, using a sort of cut-and-paste method with various sermons and discussions that have taken place, created lots of material for a lynching campaign. We could offer up lots of examples, but the most striking of them was this: While Gülen once actually said, “You cannot tell the CHP [main opposition Republican People’s Party] supporters to go to hell,” his words were manipulated to look like he said, “Let the CHP supporters go to hell.”
November 15, 2011
Benevolence in the Gulen Movement
Halit Okur
The concept of benevolence is very important part of Gulen Movement. Turkish speaking community calls Gulen Movement as Hizmet Movement. The word hizmet, which translates as service from Turkish, refers to public activities conducted by the followers of movement for the wellbeing of other people. It is important to notice that through their benevolent service to people, the followers of Gulen Movement hope to please and become closer to God. In such a way, benevolence lies at the essence of the Hizmet Movement and comprises its inalienable part.
The concept of benevolence is very important part of Gulen Movement. Turkish speaking community calls Gulen Movement as Hizmet Movement. The word hizmet, which translates as service from Turkish, refers to public activities conducted by the followers of movement for the wellbeing of other people. It is important to notice that through their benevolent service to people, the followers of Gulen Movement hope to please and become closer to God. In such a way, benevolence lies at the essence of the Hizmet Movement and comprises its inalienable part.
November 14, 2011
Pakistani Minister visits the baby who was born in a KYM tent
Kimse Yok Mu
Pakistan Punjab Province Food and Mineral Resources Minister Abdul Chafoor visited a family that survived the earthquake, and which KYM gave a helping hand to in Van. Pakistan Minister presented a crib as a gift for the baby.
The communities of many different countries run to help Van
Kimse Yok Mu
Immediately after the 7.2 earthquake in Van that shook all Turkey, many people and institutions from Turkey and all over the world mobilized to help Van. Ebru TV, broadcasting in the USA, held a live broadcast campaign for earthquake relief.
Immediately after the 7.2 earthquake in Van that shook all Turkey, many people and institutions from Turkey and all over the world mobilized to help Van. Ebru TV, broadcasting in the USA, held a live broadcast campaign for earthquake relief.
November 13, 2011
100 truckloads of relief supplies were distributed to earthquake survivors
Kimse Yok Mu
100 truckloads of aid, amounting to 4 million Turkish Liras was delivered and distributed to the earthquake survivors by the volunteers with the message "We always got your back."
100 truckloads of aid, amounting to 4 million Turkish Liras was delivered and distributed to the earthquake survivors by the volunteers with the message "We always got your back."
200 prefabricated houses to be built in Van
Kimse Yok Mu
Due to the violent 7.2 earthquake in Van, KYM continues it's emergency relief activities, which are now in full swing and have started the construction of prefabricated houses in the disaster region.
Due to the violent 7.2 earthquake in Van, KYM continues it's emergency relief activities, which are now in full swing and have started the construction of prefabricated houses in the disaster region.
November 12, 2011
"Sincerity" the Remedy
Cemil Genç
Fethullah Gulen’s solution to today’s problems are not only unique but also very practical. For example; one of the major challenges the people of religion and the scholars have been facing with is the lack of unity amount them. How come people of truth and concord oppose each other in rivalry? Unity belongs in reality to the people of peace and dispute to the hypocrites; how is it that these two have changed places? Today, people of truth, people of the law and people of reality all worshipping God have been confronted by this conflict all over the world.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
November 11, 2011
Turkish charity foundation opens hospital in Uganda
Ayşe Doğan / Mehmet Ali Poyraz
With the donations collected from a telethon charity campaign started by Turkish aid organization Kimse Yok Mu? (Is Anybody There) and Samanyolu Haber TV, construction of a humanitarian complex, which will include a school, hospital, a dinner hall and a vocational training school, has started in Uganda.
With the donations collected from a telethon charity campaign started by Turkish aid organization Kimse Yok Mu? (Is Anybody There) and Samanyolu Haber TV, construction of a humanitarian complex, which will include a school, hospital, a dinner hall and a vocational training school, has started in Uganda.
November 10, 2011
Turkish Cultural Center hosts dinner to promote peace, understanding
Harold McNeil
Local elected officials, community leaders and representatives from different faith-based organizations turned out Monday in the Hyatt Regency Buffalo for some Turkish-American hospitality.
The third annual Friendship Dinner organized by the Turkish Cultural Center offered not just tasty kebabs and baklava as hors d’oeuvres, but an opportunity to forge connections among a diverse group of people and promote peace.
Local elected officials, community leaders and representatives from different faith-based organizations turned out Monday in the Hyatt Regency Buffalo for some Turkish-American hospitality.
The third annual Friendship Dinner organized by the Turkish Cultural Center offered not just tasty kebabs and baklava as hors d’oeuvres, but an opportunity to forge connections among a diverse group of people and promote peace.
November 9, 2011
Niagara Foundation Peace and Dialogue Awards
Adil James
The Niagara Foundation held an awards ceremony Thursday October 27th, 2011 at the Westin Southfield, which celebrated several prominent people, including Graham W.J. Beal of the Detroit Institute of Arts, Janice M. Brown of the Kalamazoo Promise, Stephen Schram, Director of Broadcasting for Michigan Public Radio, and Victor Ghalib Begg, Community Activist.
About 100 people attended the awards ceremony and dinner.
The Niagara Foundation held an awards ceremony Thursday October 27th, 2011 at the Westin Southfield, which celebrated several prominent people, including Graham W.J. Beal of the Detroit Institute of Arts, Janice M. Brown of the Kalamazoo Promise, Stephen Schram, Director of Broadcasting for Michigan Public Radio, and Victor Ghalib Begg, Community Activist.
About 100 people attended the awards ceremony and dinner.
November 8, 2011
Nigerian Turkish schools slaughter 1000 cows for sallah
Zion Zadok
As service to Allah and to commemorate the Sallah celebration, the Nigerian Turkish International Schools under the UFUK Dialogue Foundation of the schools slaughtered 1000 cows for charity.
President of the Foundation, Tamer Çopuroğlu said in Abuja that the gesture was a yearly ritual performed by the NTIS with contributions from Turkish businessmen as well as Turkish college parents to give out meat to the handicaps, orphans and the indigent people within Nigeria. Çopuroğlu who said that the 1000 cows were slaughtered in the 17 Turkish Colleges in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, Ogun, Yobe States and the FCT for distribution in villages and satellite towns within the states also advised able Muslims and those who were affluent to take up the challenge and reach out to the underprivileged as an act of worship to Allah or as a duty to the society.
As service to Allah and to commemorate the Sallah celebration, the Nigerian Turkish International Schools under the UFUK Dialogue Foundation of the schools slaughtered 1000 cows for charity.
President of the Foundation, Tamer Çopuroğlu said in Abuja that the gesture was a yearly ritual performed by the NTIS with contributions from Turkish businessmen as well as Turkish college parents to give out meat to the handicaps, orphans and the indigent people within Nigeria. Çopuroğlu who said that the 1000 cows were slaughtered in the 17 Turkish Colleges in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, Ogun, Yobe States and the FCT for distribution in villages and satellite towns within the states also advised able Muslims and those who were affluent to take up the challenge and reach out to the underprivileged as an act of worship to Allah or as a duty to the society.
November 7, 2011
Ebru TV telethon collects nearly $800,000 for victims of Turkey quake
Aydoğan Vatandaş
The US-based Ebru TV has hosted a live telethon to collect donations to help relief and rebuilding efforts after a deadly earthquake that hit eastern Turkish province of Van last month.
The telethon, aired on Thursday, created an outpouring of support from big-hearted American public who helped raise almost $800,000 in pledges for the victims of the devastating earthquake.
Donations have been collected on behalf of Helping Hands Relief Foundation during the telethon hosted by EBRU TV, based in South Jersey.
The US-based Ebru TV has hosted a live telethon to collect donations to help relief and rebuilding efforts after a deadly earthquake that hit eastern Turkish province of Van last month.
The telethon, aired on Thursday, created an outpouring of support from big-hearted American public who helped raise almost $800,000 in pledges for the victims of the devastating earthquake.
Donations have been collected on behalf of Helping Hands Relief Foundation during the telethon hosted by EBRU TV, based in South Jersey.
November 6, 2011
Living the Love: Fethullah Gulen's Work and Vision
Cemil Genç
"You have to live your Love or else you’ll only end in words.”
Rumi
Human problems and contemporary terminology
The world that we live in today is full of pressing dilemmas and unsolved puzzles. Academics, intellectuals, policy-makers as well as opinion leaders struggle to define and find a permanent solution to the spread of nationalism, the challenges of democratization, the perils of globalization, and many other social concerns of deep importance. However, the lack of a common terminology hinders communication among the people and delays resolution of the disputes. Even when we seem to agree upon conceptual frameworks the lack of implementing power prevents us from delivering the positive results. Yet, our hope for a better future has never really died. At different points in history, people have been able to mobilize for good inspired by historical lessons and prominent ideas.
"You have to live your Love or else you’ll only end in words.”
Rumi
Human problems and contemporary terminology
The world that we live in today is full of pressing dilemmas and unsolved puzzles. Academics, intellectuals, policy-makers as well as opinion leaders struggle to define and find a permanent solution to the spread of nationalism, the challenges of democratization, the perils of globalization, and many other social concerns of deep importance. However, the lack of a common terminology hinders communication among the people and delays resolution of the disputes. Even when we seem to agree upon conceptual frameworks the lack of implementing power prevents us from delivering the positive results. Yet, our hope for a better future has never really died. At different points in history, people have been able to mobilize for good inspired by historical lessons and prominent ideas.
November 5, 2011
Ebru TV Telethon Raised Over $750,000
Ebru News
EBRU TV hosted a telethon in partnership with the Helping Hands Relief Foundation for victims of Turkiye's recent earthquake on Thursday evening.
The Telethon, which collected more than 750-thousand dollars in pledges was hosted by Ebru News anchors Logan Crawford and Diane Bakos.
EBRU TV hosted a telethon in partnership with the Helping Hands Relief Foundation for victims of Turkiye's recent earthquake on Thursday evening.
The Telethon, which collected more than 750-thousand dollars in pledges was hosted by Ebru News anchors Logan Crawford and Diane Bakos.
November 4, 2011
Islam’s real enemy: The Muslim-meter
Burak Bekdil
One cannot help but admire the often ignored quote by prominent Islamic preacher Fethullah Gülen, which one of his intellectual followers recently reminded me of during a private conversation: “Just like there are endless ways human beings breathe, there are endless ways human beings practice their belief; and all of them must be respected.” I recalled, with sorrow, that line when I recently read a brief review of a book written by a former top Muslim cleric (and one of the founders of the ruling Justice and Development Party, or AKP).
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| Fethullah Gulen |
November 3, 2011
Dr. Esposito: The Gulen Movement Introduces Turkey to the World
Ayten Çiftçi
Dr. John L. Esposito, a professor of Islam at Georgetown University in the United States said that the Gülen Movement has brought a major contribution to the recognition of Turkey in the world. Dr. Esposito who came to Turkey for the workshop entitled 'Transition from dictatorship to democracy', which was organized by the Turkish Prime Ministry's Office of Public Diplomacy and the Georgetown University the Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, stated, "The whole world should benefit from the services performed by the Gülen movement.” Esposito told the Zaman newspaper that the movement has a big mission not only in Turkey but in the world, and further added, "They have neither political nor ideological efforts. They have one goal. That is to enlighten the world with education. This is why we need the Gülen Movement in this age.” Stating that he wrote a book about the Gülen movement in 2003, Esposito said that he did not want to meet Fethullah Gulen only to be objective about him. Esposito noted that Gülen's house was very close to his house, "One day I could have visited him, but I was afraid that those around me would doubt my objectivity if they thought I was friends with Gulen".
Dr. John L. Esposito, a professor of Islam at Georgetown University in the United States said that the Gülen Movement has brought a major contribution to the recognition of Turkey in the world. Dr. Esposito who came to Turkey for the workshop entitled 'Transition from dictatorship to democracy', which was organized by the Turkish Prime Ministry's Office of Public Diplomacy and the Georgetown University the Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, stated, "The whole world should benefit from the services performed by the Gülen movement.” Esposito told the Zaman newspaper that the movement has a big mission not only in Turkey but in the world, and further added, "They have neither political nor ideological efforts. They have one goal. That is to enlighten the world with education. This is why we need the Gülen Movement in this age.” Stating that he wrote a book about the Gülen movement in 2003, Esposito said that he did not want to meet Fethullah Gulen only to be objective about him. Esposito noted that Gülen's house was very close to his house, "One day I could have visited him, but I was afraid that those around me would doubt my objectivity if they thought I was friends with Gulen".
November 2, 2011
Rumi Forum bestows Peace and Dialogue Awards
Ali H. Aslan
The Rumi Forum, an international organization promoting interfaith dialogue and peace, presented awards celebrating peace and dialogue initiatives at their annual Peace and Dialogue Awards ceremony in Washington on Tuesday.
The Rumi Forum, an international organization promoting interfaith dialogue and peace, presented awards celebrating peace and dialogue initiatives at their annual Peace and Dialogue Awards ceremony in Washington on Tuesday.
Ceremony Honors Individuals Dedicated to Peace
Erdoğan Dur, Namisha Sarin, Yavuz Yağlıdere
The nation's capital - the scene of a pretigious ceremony... honoring those who contribute to the world's interfaith and intercultural dialogue.
In Washington D-C, the 6th Annual 2011 RUMI Peace and Dialogue Awards drew a crowd of supporters dedicated to peace and understanding worldwide.
The nation's capital - the scene of a pretigious ceremony... honoring those who contribute to the world's interfaith and intercultural dialogue.
In Washington D-C, the 6th Annual 2011 RUMI Peace and Dialogue Awards drew a crowd of supporters dedicated to peace and understanding worldwide.
November 1, 2011
Opinion: Out of the rubble, a chance to mend relations
Aydoğan Vatandaş *
Even though Turkey and Israel had great tensions after the Mavi Marmara raid last year, it was a breath of a fresh air to know that Israel was the first country to extend her hand to Turkey following last week’s devastating earthquake in Van.
The United States, Germany, Greece and Poland also offered help, as did Armenia, a country that had no diplomatic relationship with Turkey for a long time.
But Turkey was initially reluctant to accept outside offers of help.
Even though Turkey and Israel had great tensions after the Mavi Marmara raid last year, it was a breath of a fresh air to know that Israel was the first country to extend her hand to Turkey following last week’s devastating earthquake in Van.
The United States, Germany, Greece and Poland also offered help, as did Armenia, a country that had no diplomatic relationship with Turkey for a long time.
But Turkey was initially reluctant to accept outside offers of help.
October 31, 2011
Somali education minister praises opening of Turkish school
Alyson Neel
The Somali education minister expressed his happiness at the opening of the first Turkish high school in Somalia on Monday.
"It has been wonderful -- the students and parents are very happy to have access to quality education," Somali Education Minister Ahmet Aidid Ibrahim shared in an exclusive interview with Today's Zaman on Tuesday.
The Somali education minister expressed his happiness at the opening of the first Turkish high school in Somalia on Monday.
"It has been wonderful -- the students and parents are very happy to have access to quality education," Somali Education Minister Ahmet Aidid Ibrahim shared in an exclusive interview with Today's Zaman on Tuesday.
Logistics center and food center are opened with a ceremony in Somalia
Kimse Yok Mu
KYM Association opened a Logistics Center and a food center with a ceremony attended by the Somali PM Sheikh Sharif Ahmed.
The ceremony was held in the center of the capital city Mogadishu and the Prime Minister gave a speech thanking the Turkish people for all the help.
The ceremony was held in the center of the capital city Mogadishu and the Prime Minister gave a speech thanking the Turkish people for all the help.
October 30, 2011
Turkish hospital opens to save lives in Kazakhstan
Today's Zaman
The Sema Hospital, specializing in the treatment of heart disease, was officially inaugurated over the weekend in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan.
The Sema Hospital, specializing in the treatment of heart disease, was officially inaugurated over the weekend in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan.
Turkish college to partner Yobe on education, agriculture
Hamisu Kabir Matazu
The Turkish International College has expressed its readiness to partner Yobe Emirates on education and agriculture.
The Turkish International College has expressed its readiness to partner Yobe Emirates on education and agriculture.
October 29, 2011
Turkey as seen from Pakistan
İhsan Yılmaz
KARACHI -- I have been giving a marathon of speeches in Pakistan, and in the past few days have spoken in three or four different venues on the transformations taking place in Turkey, Turkish foreign policy, Turkish NGOs, relations between Turkey and the West, the Arab Spring from the Turkish perspective and the relationship between secularism, Islam and democracy in Turkey.
KARACHI -- I have been giving a marathon of speeches in Pakistan, and in the past few days have spoken in three or four different venues on the transformations taking place in Turkey, Turkish foreign policy, Turkish NGOs, relations between Turkey and the West, the Arab Spring from the Turkish perspective and the relationship between secularism, Islam and democracy in Turkey.
October 28, 2011
Fethullah Gülen and a new paradigm in the Kurdish issue
Markar Esayan
We are experiencing hard times. This country has so many ignored problems that are affecting us; they do this sometimes as a group, sometimes individually and sometimes as a collective whole.
Waste of time and money may be compensated. But how about the loss of lives? Or what about those who have experienced the anguish of losing a loved one.
We are experiencing hard times. This country has so many ignored problems that are affecting us; they do this sometimes as a group, sometimes individually and sometimes as a collective whole.
Waste of time and money may be compensated. But how about the loss of lives? Or what about those who have experienced the anguish of losing a loved one.
October 27, 2011
TV stations raise TL 129 million for earthquake victims
Today's Zaman
Relief efforts for the victims of last Sunday's massive earthquake have overtaken the entire country, with several TV stations raising TL 129 million as part of a joint charity telethon.
Relief efforts for the victims of last Sunday's massive earthquake have overtaken the entire country, with several TV stations raising TL 129 million as part of a joint charity telethon.
STV, Kimse Yok Mu raise TL 65 million for quake victims
Today's Zaman
More than TL 65 million was raised in a special telethon organized by the Samanyolu Media Group and Turkish charity foundation Kimse Yok Mu (Is Anybody There) on Tuesday night for the victims of Sunday's massive earthquake in eastern Turkey, according to a Cihan news agency report.
A total of TL 65,056,527 was donated during a live fundraising telecast on local Samanyolu TV channels and radio stations. More than 9,000 people reached out in support of the earthquake victims by sending SMS text messages during the telethon. The show was hosted by Gezegen Mehmet, a famous radio personality.
More than TL 65 million was raised in a special telethon organized by the Samanyolu Media Group and Turkish charity foundation Kimse Yok Mu (Is Anybody There) on Tuesday night for the victims of Sunday's massive earthquake in eastern Turkey, according to a Cihan news agency report.
A total of TL 65,056,527 was donated during a live fundraising telecast on local Samanyolu TV channels and radio stations. More than 9,000 people reached out in support of the earthquake victims by sending SMS text messages during the telethon. The show was hosted by Gezegen Mehmet, a famous radio personality.
October 26, 2011
Opportunity emerges -- from Van
Yavuz Baydar
There is such a huge difference between causes of death. Just a week or so ago the country was traumatized by an abominable attack that killed 24 soldiers. Two days ago, retaliatory action resulted in -- according to military sources -- the deaths of 270 Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) insurgents. There were Kurds, as I wrote in my previous article, among the soldiers and many of the militants were Kurds from Turkey.
The earthquake that hit the predominantly Kurdish province of Van on Sunday has killed over 300 people. The worst hit area, the district of Erciş, is almost purely Kurdish, with political sympathies equally divided between Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and Peace and Democracy Party (BDP).
There is such a huge difference between causes of death. Just a week or so ago the country was traumatized by an abominable attack that killed 24 soldiers. Two days ago, retaliatory action resulted in -- according to military sources -- the deaths of 270 Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) insurgents. There were Kurds, as I wrote in my previous article, among the soldiers and many of the militants were Kurds from Turkey.
The earthquake that hit the predominantly Kurdish province of Van on Sunday has killed over 300 people. The worst hit area, the district of Erciş, is almost purely Kurdish, with political sympathies equally divided between Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and Peace and Democracy Party (BDP).
October 25, 2011
Fethullah Gülen: ‘Shame for military to stage coups but not to finish off the PKK’
Today's Zaman
Renowned Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has said it is shameful that the Turkish military, which ruled millions of people after staging coups, has failed to bring an end to outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) terrorism despite three decades having passed since it came into existence.
In his latest speech broadcast on the herkul.org website, Fethullah Gülen expressed his grief over the deaths of dozens of security members during terrorist attacks in the country's Southeast last week. He also expressed his disappointment over the Turkish military's failure to end PKK terrorism over the past 30 years.
Renowned Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen has said it is shameful that the Turkish military, which ruled millions of people after staging coups, has failed to bring an end to outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) terrorism despite three decades having passed since it came into existence.
In his latest speech broadcast on the herkul.org website, Fethullah Gülen expressed his grief over the deaths of dozens of security members during terrorist attacks in the country's Southeast last week. He also expressed his disappointment over the Turkish military's failure to end PKK terrorism over the past 30 years.
October 24, 2011
German interpellation about Gülen Movement
The Federal Government of Germany responded to a minor interpellation by Ulla Jelpke et al from the Die Linke party, who inquired about the Gülen movement. In a letter signed by Klaus-Dieter Fritsche, the President of the German Bundestag, Federal Government responded to this inquiry by affirming that “The Federal Government does not have any information about the Fethullah Gülen movement which may be relevant to the protection of the Constitution. The Fethullah Gülen movement is not monitored by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.” Here are the questions by the Die Linke party and answers by the government:
October 23, 2011
We were afraid to publish when we got the coup diaries, Birand says
Fatih Vural
Veteran journalist Mehmet Ali Birand made striking confessions about the contribution of the mainstream media to the military in anti-democratic practices over the years in May, triggering the debate on the role of the media during military coups.
Noting that most journalists and media channels acted in favor of the military to guarantee the hegemonic position of the secular and Kemalist establishment in the political landscape thus excluding important segments of society from the decision-making process, Birand said that democracy had not been as important as retaining political power by using any means, including supporting coups, for secular intellectuals and journalists.
Veteran journalist Mehmet Ali Birand made striking confessions about the contribution of the mainstream media to the military in anti-democratic practices over the years in May, triggering the debate on the role of the media during military coups.
Noting that most journalists and media channels acted in favor of the military to guarantee the hegemonic position of the secular and Kemalist establishment in the political landscape thus excluding important segments of society from the decision-making process, Birand said that democracy had not been as important as retaining political power by using any means, including supporting coups, for secular intellectuals and journalists.
October 22, 2011
Superheroes inspired by Quran nothing to fear (Fear Not)
Kay Campbell
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama -- The contested reputation of Muslim leader Fethullah Gulen is a case study in the vexations faced by Muslims who are working for peace in a world too often convinced that all Muslims are either murderous zealots, friends of murderous zealots, covering up for said murderous zealots, or future murderous zealots.
Turkish Islamist fundamentalists claim that Gulen, who now lives in the U.S., is working for Jewish interests inside of Turkey. Also, Gulen is a Trojan horse for the American C.I.A. (this in the land where the Trojan Horse was invented) to infect Turkey with Western decadence.
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| Fethullah Gulen |
Turkish Islamist fundamentalists claim that Gulen, who now lives in the U.S., is working for Jewish interests inside of Turkey. Also, Gulen is a Trojan horse for the American C.I.A. (this in the land where the Trojan Horse was invented) to infect Turkey with Western decadence.
October 21, 2011
PKK’s war for survival and power
Bülent Keneş
Turkey woke up to an indescribable sorrow on Wednesday morning. Hundreds of Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) terrorists launched simultaneous attacks against eight different spots in the Çukurca district of Hakkari, slaughtering 24 young soldiers and wounding 22 others in the spring of their lives.
People are quite right to ask why security forces failed to take adequate security measures in the region to protect both themselves and the country despite the fact that the terrorist organization will have increased concerns about its survival and act with these concerns in mind, as there have been refreshed hopes that the work on drafting a new constitution will remove the remaining traces of the Kurdish issue, which has already been diminished thanks to the democratic reforms implemented so far.
Turkey woke up to an indescribable sorrow on Wednesday morning. Hundreds of Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) terrorists launched simultaneous attacks against eight different spots in the Çukurca district of Hakkari, slaughtering 24 young soldiers and wounding 22 others in the spring of their lives.
People are quite right to ask why security forces failed to take adequate security measures in the region to protect both themselves and the country despite the fact that the terrorist organization will have increased concerns about its survival and act with these concerns in mind, as there have been refreshed hopes that the work on drafting a new constitution will remove the remaining traces of the Kurdish issue, which has already been diminished thanks to the democratic reforms implemented so far.
October 20, 2011
Fethullah Gülen says he is saddened over heart-wrenching PKK killings
Today's Zaman
Turkish renowned Islamic scholar has said he is saddened over the death of Turkish soldiers in attacks by the terrorist Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) in Hakkari on Wednesday that killed 24 soldiers.
Fethullah Gülen said despite similar previous incidents and all intelligence gathering, openly tandem attacks as a result of lack of necessary sensitivity and measures, these attacks are a dark scenario played out over these territories.
Gülen expressed condolences for the slain troops and said he hopes people could tackle these problems.
Published on Today's Zaman, 20 October 2011, Thursday
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| Fethullah Gulen |
Fethullah Gülen said despite similar previous incidents and all intelligence gathering, openly tandem attacks as a result of lack of necessary sensitivity and measures, these attacks are a dark scenario played out over these territories.
Gülen expressed condolences for the slain troops and said he hopes people could tackle these problems.
Published on Today's Zaman, 20 October 2011, Thursday
October 19, 2011
Turkey rolls up sleeves to reach out to needy at home, abroad on Eid al-Adha
Today's Zaman
Turkish charity groups are once again preparing to help the less fortunate in Turkey and around the world during the upcoming holiday of Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice), which is to begin on Nov. 6 and last for four days.
Turkish charity groups are once again preparing to help the less fortunate in Turkey and around the world during the upcoming holiday of Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice), which is to begin on Nov. 6 and last for four days.
October 18, 2011
I see real patriotism in the Gülen movement *
Serdar Turgut
When I sit down to write my column, I never worry about pleasing everyone or constraining my emotions. When I decide it's the right time for a column, my emotions should be heightened. I do not write with my brain; I write with my heart.
When I sit down to write my column, I never worry about pleasing everyone or constraining my emotions. When I decide it's the right time for a column, my emotions should be heightened. I do not write with my brain; I write with my heart.
October 17, 2011
Protectionist Ideology in Turkey and Its Cheap, Polarizing Bloggers Abroad
Muhammed Çetin
When a conflict arises in society, adherents of any ideology will use it to their own advantage. One way they do this is by pushing groups outside the conflict to be involved in it.
They attempt to make their adversary's position seem illegitimate and negative in the eyes of third parties. Protectionist groups in the Turkish system use all these tactics to discredit opponents, legitimize repression and mask unlawful schemes. Their easiest route to that end has been to control the media, including recently using deceitful bloggers outside Turkey.
When a conflict arises in society, adherents of any ideology will use it to their own advantage. One way they do this is by pushing groups outside the conflict to be involved in it.
They attempt to make their adversary's position seem illegitimate and negative in the eyes of third parties. Protectionist groups in the Turkish system use all these tactics to discredit opponents, legitimize repression and mask unlawful schemes. Their easiest route to that end has been to control the media, including recently using deceitful bloggers outside Turkey.
October 16, 2011
Afghan-Turk Medal Winning Students Praised
Kabul (BIA)
As many as 43 Afghan-Turk High School got first positions in a competition held in Turkey and won medals were lauded during a meeting in Kabul. The students had attended a competition of social and science in Turkey could get the first positions and win gold, silver and bronze medals. At the meeting, general director of Afghan-Turk schools in Kabul, Neman Urdoghan shed light on the historical relation between the two countries and pledged expansion of cultural and education activities of his country with Afghanistan. Likewise, Turkish ambassador emphasized on expansion of his country’s cooperation particularly in the area of education and health as saying that, “we join the Afghan people in their pain and grief”. At the meeting education minister, Farooq Wardak also lauded the talent of the Afghan-Turk school students who had brought medals and honored their people and government. He also thanked the Turkish country for providing education facilities for the Afghan students. At the end of the meeting prizes were distributed among the medal winning students.
Published on Bakhtar News Agency, 11 October 2011, Wednesday
Published on Bakhtar News Agency, 11 October 2011, Wednesday
October 15, 2011
The ‘community’ [Gulen movement] and the Kurdish issue
Özlem Albayrak, Yeni Şafak
The Gülen movement has long been approached by other religious groups and communities with wariness since it refused to be “obstinate” with the Republican regime that oppressed Muslims for many years and it failed to level criticism of modernity and the West as was typical of other Muslim groups.
The Gülen movement has long been approached by other religious groups and communities with wariness since it refused to be “obstinate” with the Republican regime that oppressed Muslims for many years and it failed to level criticism of modernity and the West as was typical of other Muslim groups.
October 14, 2011
Balkans between two worlds: Turkey and Europe
Mesut İdriz *
Geo-ontologically the Balkans falls at the crossroads between the heartlands of Turkey’s Anatolia and Europe.
...
Turkish educational institutions in the Balkans have a longer history than Turkish state agencies, in both pre-university and university levels. These educational institutions have managed to be successful as secondary schools, so-called “kolej” (high schools), where the medium of instruction is in English, along with the local languages. These schools’ students do not belong to a specific group or ethnicity, as the schools are open to all, including the children of diplomats and expats working for international companies.
Geo-ontologically the Balkans falls at the crossroads between the heartlands of Turkey’s Anatolia and Europe.
...
October 13, 2011
Importance and power of the Gülen movement
Cengiz Çandar, Radikal
The Gülen community is currently the most influential Turkish lobby in the US. They work in the right way and obey the rules of the game in the US perfectly.
The Gülen community is currently the most influential Turkish lobby in the US. They work in the right way and obey the rules of the game in the US perfectly.
October 12, 2011
The US and Turkey: Rebuilding relations
Beril Dedeoğlu
There is a considerable difference between looking at Turkey from inside and outside the country. From which foreign country one looks towards Turkey also matters greatly. When we are in Turkey, we often view ourselves as people capable of criticizing their country and as a nation that yearns for a better political system, better democracy and more transparent institutions. However, from the outside, the image we portray is sometimes quite different.
We were in Los Angeles for the last few days as guests of the Pacifica Institute, in the context of the Turkish Cultural and Food Festival. We had contradictory feelings when we visited the city and the festival area. California is one of the richest states in the US, and its level of development has sometimes astonished us. It's instructive to observe how the agriculture, industry and service sectors can develop in harmony, how vineyards and colleges, how the movie industry and ports can coexist and even support each other's activities. It was also a reminder how much distance Turkey has yet to cover.
There is a considerable difference between looking at Turkey from inside and outside the country. From which foreign country one looks towards Turkey also matters greatly. When we are in Turkey, we often view ourselves as people capable of criticizing their country and as a nation that yearns for a better political system, better democracy and more transparent institutions. However, from the outside, the image we portray is sometimes quite different.
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