History of the Educational Projects of the Gulen Movement

Helen Rose Ebaugh

Mr. Gülen, together with administrators of the Kestanepazari institution and with the support of local businessmen organized summer camps for middle and high school students, as well as university students. These camps taught secular education courses in areas such as history and biology but also provided religious discussions on issues such as the role of Islam in public debates. Mr. Gülen often evoked the life of Muhammad and the classical period of the Ottoman Empire as good examples of ways in which fidelity to the precepts of Islam promoted greatness.

A Guidebook to Gulen Movement

Kenan Taş

Nationally and globally, the Gulen Movement has been one of the most widely mentioned social movements. Whether you name it Cemaat (community) or Hizmet (service), the indisputable truth is that the movement remains a mystery box for the outsiders and those unacquainted with it. Masses are wondering what the movement’s goals and strategies are and whether it has a "hidden agenda" or not. Thus the movement naturally feels the need to explain itself.

Turkish School Officially Opens in Rwanda

Hope Kids Academy, an international Turkish school located in Kigali's prime suburb of Nyarutarama, was on Friday evening officially opened.

Gulen Movement participants have been serving Northern Iraq for 19 years

Ruşen Çakır

If there is a Turkish factor in Iraq Kurdistan (Northern Iraq), Gulen Movement volunteers made an enormous contribution to this for almost 20 years. In spite of terrible conditions, they founded the first [Gulen-inspired] school in 1994 in Arbil. Today they run 18 schools in Iraq Kurdistan, one of which is Ishik University that was founded in 2008. They run 12 schools in southern Iraq.

TAA to hold annual Turkic American Convention in Washington

The Turkic American Alliance (TAA), the largest national Turkic organization in the US, is to hold its third annual Turkic American Convention in Washington, D.C., on March 12-13 in cooperation with the Turkish Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists (TUSKON).

Somalia: Turkish Schools Strive for a Brighter Future

Future of Somalia, striving to combat the famine that the civil war and severe drought left behind, is raised at Somali-Turkish schools in the country. A total of 390 students -30 elementary and 360 high school- are receiving education at three different schools operated by Nile Institutions.

Writers, journalists gather to discuss media’s role in social cohesion

Prominent writers, academics and representatives from various media organizations gathered on Saturday in the Kurdish-populated province of Diyarbakır to discuss the role of the media in promoting social cohesion.

Preventing Violence and Achieving World Peace: The Contributions of the Gulen Movement

How can we address the seemingly endless conflicts in the world, particularly those arising from misunderstandings of Islam by both Muslims and non-Muslims?

An in-depth Interview with TUSKON President Meral

Ünal Tanık

TUSKON is one of the most recognized business associations of the last decade. Its initiatives are believed to play a critical role in reducing the impacts of global economic crisis following 2008 that severely struck European Union and the US, and in Turkey’s expansion in Africa. TUSKON President Rizanur Meral revealed that they are about to launch an initiative to boost women's involvement in the business world. Meral has been holding TUSKON’s presidency for 7 years now prioritizing to be a business coach over his own successful career. Below is the interview with President Meral:

Scholars call for EU negotiations, domestic reform

Menekse Tokyay

As Turkey's EU bid has stalled, a group of prominent scholars agree that negotiations can only proceed if Turkey advances democracy, drafts a new civilian constitution and resolves of the Kurdish issue.

TUSKON at the forefront of economic expansion in Africa

Fazila Mat

In recent years, Turkey's interest in the African continent has been growing rapidly. Africa's expectations towards Ankara are also extremely high, as the Somalia case shows.

'Gulen Movement has been the driving force behind many of the new relationships between Turkey and sub-Saharan African nations'

Julia Harte*

…In recent years, plenty of madrasas have already been established in Somalia by foreign powers, especially Gulf states. Even the most devastated areas have access to some form of religious education. But that just makes Turkey’s efforts to spread its form of moderate Islam an even more important strategic move, according to Mehmet Arda, professor of international relations at Istanbul’s Galatasaray University. “Turkey is saying, ‘If it’s going to be an Islamic state, better that it be an Islamic state according to our version of Islam than someone else’s,’” Arda states.

Outcome of Dakar Conference on Hizmet (Gulen Movement)

A two-day international conference aimed at proposing a critical reflection for appraising the links between social cohesion and diversity in a globalized world has ended in Dakar, Senegal.

Tens of thousands compete for Azerbaijani

“Love your mother tongue!” contest, intended to promote proper comprehension, use and transfer of Azerbaijani language to new generations, attracted over 38 thousands students from some 1,115 schools across the country, on February 18.

Senegalese PM Addresses Gulen Movement Conference in Dakar

Abdoul Mbaye*

Headmaster of Yavuz Selim Institutes, members of Atlantic Senegal-Turkey Association (ATSA), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Movie 'Selam' Preparing to Greet Warmly

After two years of filming, the feature movie “Selam”, which depicts the stories of selfless teachers departing for conflict and/or famine ridden countries without a second thought, released a new teaser.

Northern Iraqi Students Stir Emotions with Their Songs

Northern Iraq semi-final qualification round of the Turkish Olympiads, which will mark its 11th year with the slogan “Towards Universal Peace”, were concluded on February 17, Arbil.

“Turkey Now Back in Africa with Turkish Schools”

In parallel to a focus on Africa initiatives in Turkish foreign policy, there has been a visible increase in the interest toward Turkey throughout Africa as well. Strengthening partnerships and relations founded on the shared past has been welcomed by academics, experts, politicians and the media. Consequently, such an interest has encouraged a rise in the number of scholarly exchanges, given the need for enriching existing academic and cultural common grounds.

New Book Analyzes Fethullah Gulen's Perspective on Literature

A versatile personality, Fethullah Gulen is an architect of soul and sense who confronts his era and its values within the parameters of a deep-rooted civilization and an envisioned future while also inviting his sympathizers along this confrontation. It goes without saying that the meaning such a versatile personality ascribes to literature and art is highly distinct and more comprehensive than what a typical man of letter does.

Gulen Inspired Schools, Global Success

Cemil Genc

Developing countries are investing more today in education than industrialized countries did when they faced similar levels of income. Rapid expansion is generally perceived as coming at the expense of quality, and it can lead to increased social, gender and ethnic inequality [1]. In countries where there are problems with the quality of schooling and the relevance of the knowledge and skills it promotes, further expansion of school enrolment may not be seen as a priority, at least not until employment prospects for school graduates improve and effective reforms have taken place [2].

“An unshakable spiritual unity, unique to Hizmet Movement volunteers”

Hizmet (Gulen Movement) was discussed by Turkish and American academics at a panel titled "Hizmet: A Transnational Social Movement with Participants in Turkey, the US, and around the World” at Georgetown University.

Tradition-Rooted Wrongdoings Erroneously Attributed to Islam

Positive role of interfaith dialogue in curbing violence and discrimination against women was highlighted at the symposium held at United Nations, New York.

Intercultural Dialogue Platform kicks off “Abraham’s Table Gatherings”

On February 12, the first of the series “Abraham’s Table Gatherings” hosted by Intercultural Dialogue Platform took place with the participation of Catholic Assyrian Church’s members. In attendance of the inaugural gathering were President of Journalists and Writers Foundation Mustafa Yesil and Assyrian Catholic Church Foundation President Zeki Basatemir, both in company with the foundations’ board members, in addition to the church’s deputy-bishop Yusuf Sag.

Journalists and Writers Foundation-European Union Delegation Roundtable Meeting

On January 25, 2013, Journalist and Writers Foundation hosted EU-Turkey Delegation Roundtable meeting at Sheraton Hotel, Ankara. In his opening speech, EU Delegation President, Ambassador Jean-Maurice Ripert noted that they have been examining and comparing Turkey’s ambitions with EU criteria set for the accession process. “Journalists and Writers Foundation is an influential and deep-rooted institution. So, we would like to know the foundation’s thoughts on EU’s criteria for human rights, press freedom, freedom of expression and religion.” Ripert inquired. The delegation sought answers during the meeting that is certain to be instrumental in the country’s diplomatic future.

Mauritius Set for Foreign Investment

In his statements at Turkey-Mauritius Trade and Investment Forum, Mauritius Minister of Foreign Affairs Arvin Boolell noted that Mauritius is the most trade-secure country of the continent and continued: “With tomorrow’s Incentives and Assurance in Bilateral Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, we aim to attract Turkish business world to opportunities in our country. Turkish investors are welcome to set up business in agriculture, energy, food, marine and tourism sectors, in particular.”

Is the Hizmet Movement a Social Movement?

Margaret A. Johnson, Ph.D.

If we look at the sociological definition of a social movement in the broadest sense it refers to collective action by a group of people brought together over a shared desire or interest to impact social change or bring about primary changes to a society.

Gulen-inspired Schools: Achieving Academic and Moral Education

Cemil Genç

Browsing through the major news outlets, you would face with the bizarre picture of the fact that in many parts of the world, civil society suffers because of conflicts, corruption and lack of pace. It is an inevitable relativity to recognize the crucial role of education in contributing to building a culture of peace and condemning instances.

Impressions of the Gulen Movement Conference in Senegal

Alie Yunus Kallay

EBRU Review Magazine and Turkish-Senegalese Association for Atlantic Cultural Dialogue (ATSA) invited Muslims from all over the world to participate and present papers on the theme “Diversity and Cohesion in a Globalized World: Contributions of the Gülen Movement” in a seminar held in Dakar (Senegal), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education of Senegal and the University of Sheikh Anta Diop of Dakar (UCAD) on the 8th and 9th of February 2013.

Turkish Parliamentary Delegation Visits Pak-Turk Schools in Islamabad

Cemil Cicek, Speaker of the Turkish Parliament (Turkish Grand National Assembly), accompanied by an official delegation paid a visit to Pak-Turk School and College during his stay in the country for Parliament Assembly of Economic Partnership Organization to take place in Islamabad.

Fethullah Gülen convinces people Islam integral part of global order

Professor Hans Köchler from Austria,

President of the International Progress
Organization. (Photo: Today's Zaman)

The Abant Platform organized by the Journalists and Writers' Foundation (GYV) hosted a wide range of participants from different walks of life at the traditional Abant meetings to discuss the “Diverse Perspectives on Turkey” on Feb. 8-10. Today's Zaman talked to one of the most prominent participants of the meeting, Professor Hans Köchler from Austria, the president of the International Progress Organization (IPO), a Vienna-based think tank that aims to promote dialogue among civilizations, the peaceful coexistence of nations as well as human rights. Köchler had been nominated as an observer at the Pan Am Flight 103 (Lockerbie) bombing trial by the then UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

Turkish Cultural Center of Western Massachusetts plans grand opening at Agawam location

Cori Urban

Where can you go to learn about the Turkish language and culture or to learn how to cook Turkish dishes?

Kimse Yok Mu Brings Joy to Gaza Orphans

Kimse Yok Mu brought joy to 500 Gaza orphans as it once again extended a compassionate hand those in need.

Even a single blanket can save a life

Kimse Yok Mu, an international aid organization operated by people inspired by Fethullah Gulen's ideas, has recently launched a campaign to help the people of Bangladesh. The campaign’s name is ‘Even a single blanket can save a life’ and the goal of the campaign is to collect money to buy warm blankets for the poor in Bangladesh.

Donate Relief Aid on Valentine’s Day, Kimse Yok Mu Suggests

[Time Sensitive]

Fethullah Gulen’s Books Met Indian Readers at New Delhi World Book Fair

Cihan News Agency

Fethullah Gulen’s books met the readers at recently held New Delhi World Book Fair, rated as one of the most recognized book fairs around the world.

Abant meeting calls for commitment to EU process, new constitution

Participants of the three-day-long Abant Platform meeting have emphasized the need to finish drafting a new constitution, stressed the importance of a state that is equidistant to all beliefs and underlined the significance of reviving Turkey's membership talks with the European Union.

The Future of the Gulen Movement

Ziya Meral *

Leaving aside all of the conspiracy theories and anxieties, the Gulen movement, also known as the Hizmet from the Turkish word for service, is one of the most fascinating and out of the box faith-based movements that have emerged from the Muslim world recently.

Abant Platform raises support for EU process, criticism for parties

In the second day of the discussions of the 28th Abant Platform meeting, the participants leveled criticisms at both Turkey and the EU while reiterating support for Turkey’s membership process at large. It was agreed that although Turkey’s long-term interests lie in the EU membership, both sides suffer from a fatigue as Turkey’s disappointment leads to a decrease in its appetite for the EU.

Abant Platform meeting launches with identity debates in Turkey

The Abant Platform started its 28th meeting on Friday at Lake Abant with the participation of over a hundred intellectuals, academics, journalists and pundits from different ideological backgrounds to discuss the current issues in Turkey.

Caring for the 42 percent, the new constitution and Abant spirit

İhsan Yılmaz

...It seems that politicians, being politicians, will continue to act as they always have and will focus on their electoral victories. It is futile to expect them to act like Platonic wise rulers who take into account the happiness of society as a whole. They will not give up their divisive aggressive rhetoric. The burden lies on the shoulders of civil society.

28th Abant Platform Convenes to Discuss ‘Diverse Perspectives on Turkey'

The prestigious Abant Platform, which has tackled pressing issues facing Turkey since its establishment in 1998, commenced its 28th meeting on Friday to discuss Turkey's domestic and regional issues with a forum titled “Diverse Perspectives on Turkey.”

Fethullah Gülen's message to "Gülen Movement" conference in Senegal

Dear guests, esteemed organizers, academics, thinkers, and honorable government authorities of Senegal,

Countdown to "Hizmet Movement Conference"- Guests depart for Senegal

The Managing Editor and Publisher of the Independent Authoritative Heritage Newspaper, Mr. Mohammed M. Kanneh, Sr. departs the country today, Thursday, February 7, 2013, for Dakar, Senegal.

Conference on Gülen movement to take place in Senegal

As the faith-based Gülen movement widens its activities across the globe in areas such as fostering education and launching humanitarian efforts to heal social and economic woes in different regions, academic research on the motives and nature of the movement is also surging, and a conference is set to take place in the West African country of Senegal this week.

Turkish schools in Mali stay open despite conflict

Turkish schools in Mali are staying open to students in spite of the military operations against rebels being carried out in the northern part of the African country.

Weekly Sermons of Fethullah Gülen are now in English

Sermons of Fethullah Gülen, which have originally been published in Turkish by fgulen.com each Monday, are now available to the English-speaking readers every Wednesday. The texts, compiled from the weekly sermons given by Gülen in the US, can now be accessed from the website titled "The Broken Jug."

PM's wife praises devotion of Prague school's teachers

Emine Erdoğan, the wife of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has praised the teachers of a school opened in the Czech capital of Prague by Turkish entrepreneurs.

Turkish families in the neighboring city of Malian fights

While a considerable number of people have evacuated the area, the ongoing war couldn’t deter the Turkish teachers. The two families residing in the northern Mali city of Segou, the nearest settlement to the hot zone Konna, explained: “There is no way we are leaving Segou.”

TUSKON’s Turkish-Filipino Initiatives to Open New Trade Doors

Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists of Turkey opens new trade doors with Turkish-Filipino Business Forum in the capital Manila.

‘Time for win-win in trade for Turkey, Portugal'

Amid global economic volatilities, Turkish and Portuguese companies must begin establishing partnerships in fast-growing markets in which each has wide experience before they lose more time missing opportunities in this area, a Portuguese business union head has told Today's Zaman.

The Wing of the Bird: Fethullah Gülen on Sincerity

Thomas Michel

Fethullah Gülen as Spiritual Master

Much has been written about the thought of Fethullah Gulen in terms of the social programs and institutions inspired by his ideas. Some have studied his theory of education as the pedagogical basis for the schools and other educational ventures founded and administered by members of the community associated with Gülen’s name. Others have focused on Gülen’s vision as the philosophical motor behind a social movement working to produce social change and renewal, whether it be in Turkey, in the worldwide Islamic umma, or in the modern world in general. Still others have underlined Gülen’s call for universal love, fellowship, and tolerance and consequently his encouragement of interreligious dialogue as an essentially Islamic obligation.

Tajik-Turkish Schools excel in Science Olympiads

Haci Kemal Tajik-Turkish Schools operating in Tajikistan recorded another victory in the science olympiads held in Kazakhistan. The schools’ team ranked second, winning one gold and two silver medals.

Thais in Bursa demanding more Turkish Schools

Highly satisfied with the Turkish Schools operating in their country and demanding more, an official delegation from Thailand visited Bursa, Turkey. Bursa Governor Sahabettin Harput expressed his pleasure to host Chiang Mai Governor Tanin Subhasaen, his wife and accompanying officials from such a far but friendly country. Emphasizing the significance of Thailand as a country housing 66 million on 500.000 km2 area, “Thais are a very hardworking nation in the region. Thailand, which holds a critical position among the world’s countries with its high scale of production and friendly people, is certainly significant to us as well,” said Harput.

Psychological Campaigns Against the Hizmet Movement

For as long as I can remember, there are always operations (or military campaigns) against the honorable Fethullah Gulen and the Hizmet movement.

Though marginal, a powerful evil network has seen this movement as a phenomenon that must be annihilated for the good of Turkey. In fact, it would be more accurate to say that they want to do away with the movement for their own interests and reign rather than for any benefit to the country.

Kimse Yok Mu gears up to assist Malian refugees

Kimse Yok Mu continues its help to Malians left homeless in the ongoing civil war around the country. Donations delivered to the country are ready to be distributed.