Author: Esra Karatas Alpay
In a world increasingly defined by conflict, polarization and the breakdown of multilateral cooperation, Türkiye has actively undertaken its role as a principal architect in a new diplomatic order. Nowhere was this more evident than at the fourth Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), held on April 11-13, where Türkiye’s assertive and pragmatic foreign policy was on full display. The 2025 forum brought together over 6,000 participants from 155 countries, including 21 heads of state and government and 64 foreign ministers. With 50 high-level panels spanning climate change, nuclear threats, counterterrorism, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and humanitarian crises, the event reflected not…
As climate change accelerates, countries worldwide are being forced to reckon with its devastating consequences. Extreme weather events, water shortages and rising temperatures have made the climate crisis an inescapable reality. Among the nations stepping up to meet this challenge, Türkiye has distinguished itself with a sweeping climate agenda aimed at reducing emissions, enhancing sustainability and fostering international collaboration. With ambitious policies, groundbreaking research initiatives and a growing circular economy, the country is charting a course toward a greener future. Yet experts emphasize that the road ahead remains steep. While Türkiye has made commendable progress, meaningful climate action requires continued…
The unveiling of the New GAP Action Plan (2024-2028) during the “GAP Action Plan Information and Consultation Meeting” in Şanlıurfa marks a pivotal moment for Türkiye’s east and southeast. Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, joined by a delegation of ministers, outlined an ambitious vision to bridge regional disparities and unlock the region’s untapped potential. Beyond its strategic policy framework, this initiative symbolizes resilience, regional cooperation and inclusive growth. Legacy of resilience Türkiye has long prioritized regional development projects to address inequalities and the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP) stands as one of the most comprehensive examples. Conceived as an integrated development initiative,…
The pain of “Black January,” a massacre that claimed the lives of 147 civilians, including women and children, remains etched in Azerbaijan’s collective memory as the nation marks its 35th anniversary. On the night of Jan. 19, 1990, Soviet tanks rolled into Baku under the pretext of suppressing unrest, seeking to quash growing nationalist fervor and intimidate the Azerbaijani people. However, the operation turned into a brutal crackdown. Soldiers opened fire indiscriminately, killing civilians who had gathered to protest Soviet policies and defend their land. Among the dead were women and children. As Jan. 20 came to an end, an…
A few days ago, the anniversary of the “Bloody Christmas” massacre was commemorated in honor and memory of those who were martyred 61 years ago during the brutal attacks launched by Greek Cypriots against Turkish Cypriots in Cyprus on Dec. 20-21, 1963. This tragic event, carried out by militants of the terrorist organization EOKA, claimed the lives of 364 Turkish Cypriots and led to the evacuation of 103 Turkish villages. Known in history as “Bloody Christmas,” it stands as a somber reminder of the atrocities committed during this dark chapter in Cyprus’ history. Founded in 1955, the EOKA sought to…
When 9-year-old Zeynep cried to her parents that she was being bullied online, her mother discovered a torrent of hurtful messages on her daughter’s social media account – messages Zeynep wasn’t even old enough to legally receive. Zeynep is only one of many. Numerous stories have alarmingly become common in Türkiye in recent years, which has prompted the government to consider landmark legislation that could restrict children under 13 from accessing social media platforms altogether. This move by Türkiye is part of a broader global shift as nations grapple with how to shield young users from the dangers lurking in…
When 9-year-old Zeynep cried to her parents that she was being bullied online, her mother discovered a torrent of hurtful messages on her daughter’s social media account – messages Zeynep wasn’t even old enough to legally receive. Zeynep is only one of many. Numerous stories have alarmingly become common in Türkiye in recent years, which has prompted the government to consider landmark legislation that could restrict children under 13 from accessing social media platforms altogether. This move by Türkiye is part of a broader global shift as nations grapple with how to shield young users from the dangers lurking in…