A World at Breaking Point: Managing Crises and Transformations
This book features summaries and highlights from the keynote speeches, along with eight public and eight expert roundtable sessions from the TRT World Forum 2024. The views, themes, and discussion points presented in this publication are solely those of the speakers and participants at the Forum, and do not reflect the official view of the... View Article
Vision of Türkiye’s Century: Türkiye as a System-Building Actor
This session explored the foundational principles guiding Turkish foreign policy, notably centred around revisioning, reformism, and rebuilding. Speakers highlighted the breakdown of the post-World War II international system, leading to a state of potential chaos in global affairs. The session concluded with a brief reflection on the Turkish defence industry’s contribution to diplomatic objectives, encompassing... View Article
Israel’s War in Gaza: Humanitarian Crisis and Prospects for Peace?
The session titled “Israel’s War in Gaza: Humanitarian Crisis and Prospects for Peace?” engaged in a thorough examination of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, shedding light on the multifaceted failures within the international community and legal institutions. Participants articulated the significant shortcomings of international law and institutions, notably the International Criminal Court, in effectively addressing and holding... View Article
The Return of Geopolitics: Rivalries and Re-alignments in the New Century
The session titled “The Return of Geopolitics: Rivalries and Re-alignments in the New Century” delved into the multifaceted nature of the contemporary geopolitical landscape and the challenges it presents to global stability. The moderator initiated thought-provoking discussions by prompting panellists to reflect on their initial thoughts regarding the resurgence of geopolitics and the potential implications... View Article
Public Broadcasting in the Digital Era: Challenges and Opportunities
The session on “Public Broadcasting in the Digital Era: Challenges and Opportunities” delved into several crucial aspects of the current media landscape after a Keynote Speech delivered by Prof. Fahrettin Altun, Communications Director of the Republic of Türkiye, in which he emphasised the pressing issue of combating disinformation, a topic that has gained immense importance... View Article
Remaking the Global Economy
The session on “Remaking the Global Economy” delved into various pressing issues impacting economic growth worldwide. The Turkish Minister of Finance highlighted several significant challenges facing both the Turkish economy and the global economy at large, including ongoing conflicts in regions like Gaza and Ukraine, the climate crisis, and the economic recovery from the pandemic.... View Article
All-Knowing AI: Creative Potential or Disruptive Evil?
The session titled “All-Knowing AI: Creative Potential or Disruptive Evil?” delved into the complex dynamics surrounding the emergence of AI technology, exploring both its promising possibilities and concerning implications. Furthermore, deliberations extended to the socioeconomic repercussions of AI adoption, including its impact on employment landscapes and educational paradigms. As AI continues to evolve rapidly, the... View Article
Dis/United Nations: Working Towards Effective Multilateralism
The session “Dis/United Nations: Working Towards Effective Multilateralism” delved into critical questions surrounding the effectiveness and relevance of the United Nations (UN). The moderator initiated the discussion by posing the fundamental query: Is the UN still fit for purpose? This set the tone for an exploration of the institution’s viability in contemporary global affairs. Another... View Article
Empowering Humanity: Addressing Social Crises and Inequalities
The session titled “Empowering Humanity: Addressing Social Crises and Inequalities” highlighted various humanitarian crises and the responses required to address them. The moderator discussed the importance of collaboration in crisis response, exemplified by the Turkish Red Crescent’s operations worldwide. The dire situation in Gaza, particularly concerning healthcare, was emphasised, shedding light on the challenges faced... View Article
The Critical Nexus of Food, Water and Energy Security
The session on “The Critical Nexus of Food, Water, and Energy Security” delved deeply into the complex and interrelated challenges facing humanity in the realms of food, water, and energy sustainability. The moderator set the stage by highlighting a stark reality: around 800 million people worldwide are currently grappling with hunger, and projections suggest that... View Article
Türkiye’s Century: Reflecting on the Past and Shaping The Future
This session delved into Türkiye’s century-long journey, emphasising its unique democratic evolution and pragmatic foreign policy. The rise of Turkic identity in post-Soviet states, especially in Central Asia, adds complexity to geopolitical landscapes. Türkiye’s regional influence is explored through historic reforms, military advancements, and diplomatic endeavours, portraying it as a significant player in mediating regional... View Article
The Central Asian Chessboard: Seeking Cooperation Amid Competition
It was stated in this expert roundtable titled “The Central Asian Chessboard: Seeking Cooperation Amid Competition” that the geopolitical recalibration since 2022 has thrust Central Asian states into global prominence, with Türkiye serving as a diplomatic trailblazer due to early bilateral engagements. Central Asian countries, exhibiting identity assertiveness following the war in Ukraine, are undergoing... View Article
Balkans under the Spotlight: Resolving Tensions and Disputes
The Balkans are undergoing significant challenges amidst geopolitical shifts. Tensions in northern Kosovo and separatist rhetoric in Bosnia Herzegovina raise concerns. Türkiye, recognising its strategic role, actively engages in the region, addressing issues such as the electric grid system. The panel emphasises inclusive engagement across ethnic and political lines. Disputes’ root causes, including demographic concerns... View Article
Middle East: Between Normalisation and War
The expert roundtable titled “Middle East: Between Normalisation and War” delved into the complex geopolitical landscape leading up to October 7th, highlighting the normalisation process and the challenges faced in the region. An expert discussed the shift from maximalist to pragmatic policies among Gulf countries, focusing on optics-driven normalisation with Türkiye and Iran. The impending... View Article
Europe’s Multidimensional Challenges: Revitalising Multilateralism
In this expert roundtable, it was claimed that the EU’s multilateralism, shaped by the aftermath of the Ukraine war, faces multifaceted challenges. Geopolitical shifts, particularly Russia’s transformation, demand a comprehensive reassessment of strategies. Internal challenges, such as the absence of a cohesive foreign policy and struggles with identity consolidation, underscore the delicate balance required for... View Article
New Horizons in the Eastern Mediterranean: Competing Interests and Power Dynamic
It was stated in this expert roundtable on “New Horizons in the Eastern Mediterranean: Competing Interests and Power Dynamics” that the European Union (EU) finds itself at a crossroads in grappling with the complexities of the East Mediterranean, confronted with the daunting task of crafting a cohesive and sustainable long-term policy. For the experts of... View Article
Shared Goals, Shared Gains: Africa’s Quest for Stability and Prosperity
In the expert roundtable on “Shared Goals, Shared Gains: Africa’s Quest for Stability and Prosperity,” experts delved into crucial topics surrounding Africa’s development and stability. The session emphasised realism and the importance of acknowledging factors within control, focusing on peace, security, prosperity, integrability, and cultural identity. Prioritising achievable goals, especially in economic strength and diversity,... View Article
A Tipping Point in the Israel-Palestine Conflict: Where to After Gaza?
The expert roundtable encompassed the complex historical context of the problem, challenges to peace, concerns about genocide, lack of international accountability, and the need for a paradigm shift in addressing the crisis in Gaza. As discussions unfolded, the focus turned to potential humanitarian crises, the Palestinian refugee issue, and the urgency for a clear US... View Article
TRT World Forum 2023 Book
In December 2023, TRT World Forum organised its annual Forum under the theme “Thriving Together: Responsibilities, Actions and Solutions”. The two-day conference focused on understanding the dynamics in the international area. Leaders, politicians, and prominent experts from around the globe held discussions on both the challenges ahead and the principles that are expected to guide... View Article
Covering the Climate Crisis and the Imperative of Journalism
Commendable efforts have been undertaken to tackle the climate crisis. However, progress can sometimes seem slower than expected. While global political leaders and corporations have endeavoured to cut emissions and adopt more sustainable energy solutions, opinion leaders, journalists, advocacy groups, and citizens must keep the issue alive by constantly spreading awareness. Reporting on climate issues... View Article
The United States, China, and Taiwan: Strategic Ambiguity or Incoherence?
Since the 1972 joint communiqué with the People’s Republic of China, in which the United States acknowledged that “all Chinese on either side of the Taiwan Strait maintain there is but one China and that Taiwan is a part of China,” the U.S. has adhered to a one-China principle. In the years that followed, the... View Article
The Transformation of Türkiye’s Defence Industry and its Impact on Foreign Policy
Over the past two decades, Türkiye’s investments in developing an autonomous defence industry have become a cornerstone of its military and security strategy. This transformation has been driven by several interconnected factors. While the security landscape in Türkiye’s neighbourhood has experienced significant and often rapid shifts, the lack of tangible support from its allies, coupled... View Article
Playing With Fire: Media, Populism, and the Challenge to Democracy
In recent years, the collaboration between certain media moguls and far-right populist political figures has become increasingly evident. Examples include the support of French far-right firebrand Eric Zemmour by billionaire media mogul Vincent Bollore, the rise of Georgia Meloni in Italy facilitated by the media empire of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, and the symbiotic... View Article
Islamophobia Today: Right-Left Convergences
Islamophobia, in its various global manifestations, has predominantly been regarded as a right-wing phenomenon. Notable examples include Donald Trump’s ‘Muslim ban’ and anti-migrant policies, as well as India’s increasingly anti-Muslim stance under the Hindu Nationalist leadership of Narendra Modi’s BJP. However, in recent years, it has become increasingly evident that Islamophobia is not confined to... View Article
European Security and the Future of the Transatlantic Relations
The war in Ukraine has acted as a catalyst for increased cooperation and unity among transatlantic partners, despite ongoing bilateral disagreements between Europe and the United States. As Europe confronts its most significant crisis since the end of the Cold War, security and defence policies have risen to the forefront of political agendas. This challenging... View Article
A New Vision for Eurasia: The Global Rise of the Organisation of Turkic States
The rise of Eurasia has been a topic of ongoing discussion in recent years, with the emergence of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) now increasingly becoming a significant part of these debates. The Organisation reached a key milestone in November 2021 during its Istanbul summit, where it adopted the ‘Turkic World Vision 2040.’ This... View Article
Africa’s Moment: Seeking Greater Continental Integration Amid Persistent Challenges
The Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is the world’s largest free trade area, uniting countries across the continent and creating a common market for goods and services. As one of the flagship projects of the African Union’s ‘Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want,’ AfCFTA is anticipated to transform the continent into a global economic... View Article
Balkans at a Juncture: Regional Collaboration or Fragmentation?
Twenty years after the devastating wars that led to the dissolution of Yugoslavia, the Balkan countries remain in a precarious situation. Bosnia-Herzegovina is currently facing its most significant crisis since the signing of the 1995 Dayton Accords, with the spectre of secession threatening the country’s unity. Meanwhile, tensions between Kosovo and Serbia over Kosovo’s sovereignty... View Article
Multipolarity and the New Realities of Global Politics: Türkiye as a Stabilising Power
As the global system continues to move towards multipolarity, new powers have emerged, seeking to leave their mark on the evolving international landscape. Türkiye is no exception, and recent years have demonstrated Ankara’s growing influence in both regional and global affairs. Over the past decade, Türkiye has emerged as a stabilising regional power, playing an... View Article
Regional and International Dynamics and the Future of the Middle East
In contrast to the habitual state of antagonism, the Middle East has witnessed an unusual moment of regional de-escalation in the past two years. Several key actors have engaged in diplomatic appeasement, normalising relations, and the opening of new pages in bilateral relations. Türkiye, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and others have followed this... View Article
TRT World Forum 2022 Public Sessions Book
In December 2022, TRT World Forum organised its sixth annual Forum under the theme “Mapping the Future: Uncertainties, Realities and Opportunities”. The two-day conference focused on understanding the emergence of a new world order in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Leaders, politicians, and prominent experts from around the globe held discussions on both the... View Article
TRT World Forum 2022 Closed Sessions Book
In December 2022, TRT World Forum organised its sixth annual Forum under the theme “Mapping the Future: Uncertainties, Realities and Opportunities”. The two-day conference focused on understanding the emergence of a new world order in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Leaders, politicians, and prominent experts from around the globe held discussions on both the... View Article
The Future of Sovereignty in an Interdependent World
Since the end of the Second World War and the dissolution of European empires, the nation-state has emerged as the dominant form of political organisation and the primary holder of sovereignty. This dominance was reinforced by the belief that the nation-state was the most effective means of achieving economic development and modernisation, a process often... View Article
Global Governance and the Challenges and Opportunities of Multipolarity
In an increasingly interdependent world facing global challenges, the question of how to govern and build systems capable of addressing both present and future issues has become more urgent. The legitimacy and effectiveness of current multilateral institutions are often questioned, with many perceiving them as outdated and unreflective of the shifting global balance of power.... View Article
Climate and Global Health Crises as Strategic Threats
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, with its profound social, political, economic, and public health impacts still being felt worldwide, strategists are already focusing on how to guard against the next pandemic. The immense economic and human costs of Covid-19 have made the threat of infectious diseases to state interests undeniable. From supply chain... View Article
International Economic Development: A New Age of Global Inequality?
As the long-term socio-economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic threaten to reverse years of progress in global poverty reduction and addressing inequalities, there is a renewed emphasis on developing equitable and sustainable models of economic development, particularly in the world’s poorest regions. The so-called ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’, characterised by increased digitisation, automation, e-commerce, and remote... View Article
Digital Governance: Policymaking and Statecraft in the Digital Age
Former US President Donald Trump may have been the first ‘Twitter President,’ but the digitalisation of governance and policymaking extends far beyond ‘policy-by-tweet.’ It encompasses crucial issues such as governance, state capacity in the face of misinformation campaigns, digital infrastructure vulnerabilities, machine learning, and big data. The question of the ‘digital divide’ at the state... View Article
The Trans-Atlantic Relationship and the Future of the ‘West’
Europe-US relations have experienced ups and downs over the past few decades, particularly since the end of the Cold War, when strategic interests began to diverge. The Brexit saga and the turbulence of the Trump era have further raised questions about the future of this relationship. While the Biden administration has offered hope for a... View Article
Great Power Rivalry and the Future of the Middle East
Over the past year, the ‘Abraham Accords’ have drawn significant attention as a major shift in the strategic landscape of the Middle East. While supporters view the agreement as a ‘game changer’ for the region, it has sparked substantial backlash, particularly from Palestinians and others. However, alongside the immediate political effects of the agreement, broader... View Article
The Rise of Eurasia and the Remaking of the World Order
The concept of the ‘West’ has long shaped our understanding of global political, economic, and cultural life. It played a central role in defining the bipolar global order during the Cold War and the subsequent dominance of Western power after the fall of the Soviet Union. Strategic perspectives have been influenced by this dynamic for... View Article
The Responsibility to Protect: Human Security as Statecraft
The United Nations defines the responsibility to protect (R2P) as a political commitment aimed at preventing the most severe forms of violence and persecution. It seeks to bridge the gap between the existing obligations of member states under international humanitarian and human rights law and the harsh realities faced by populations at risk of genocide,... View Article
TRT World Forum 2021 Public Sessions Book
In December 2021, TRT World Forum organised its fifth annual Forum under the theme “ Power and Paradox: Understanding Grand Strategy in the 21st Century”. The two-day conference focused on understanding the emergence of a new world order in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Leaders, politicians, and prominent experts from around the globe held... View Article
The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict and Israel’s Engagement with Arab States
In August, US President Donald Trump announced an agreement between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel to fully normalise relations in exchange for Israel’s suspension of plans to annex the occupied West Bank. This “normalisation deal” expanded to include Bahrain, with many expecting other Arab and Muslim-majority countries to eventually follow suit. While it... View Article
War and Peace: The Fate of the Azerbaijan-Armenia Conflict
The recent military clashes in the occupied region of Nagorno-Karabakh have increased regional tensions and raised the possibility of a full-scale war. The ceasefire agreement signed almost three decades ago and the mediation process led by the OSCE Minsk Group has failed to deliver sustainable peace. The Armenian attack against Azerbaijan’s Tovuz province in mid-July... View Article
War and Disease: Living with Covid-19 in Syria and Yemen
In war-ravaged Syria, already grappling with an economy in tatters, persistent instability and a conflict that, as of yet, has shown no signs at moving towards a viable solution, the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed what remains of the country’s healthcare infrastructure to the brink. After nearly a decade of war, Syria’s healthcare infrastructure has been... View Article
The Disillusion of the American Dream: Covid-19 and the Politics of Healthcare
The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed the fragilities of health care systems across the world. This has particularly been the case in a number of wealthy Western countries including France, Italy Spain, and the United States, one of the hardest hit countries in the world. While many of these countries were believed to have some of... View Article
Great Power Competition in the Balkans
The world is once again entering into a strategic environment defined by multipolarity. China and Russia’s rise as global actors and the growing rift between the United States and Europe indicate that the future of international politics will be marked, once again, by competition between great powers. With its strategic geopolitical location, the Balkans has... View Article
The Future of the Arab World: 10 years after the Arab Spring
As the Middle East approaches 10 years since the uprisings that marked the start of the Arab Spring, the tumultuous decade has left many unanswered questions as to the future of Arab states and societies. Beyond the headline-grabbing uprisings of 2011 which saw protests spread across the region in what many observers and political actors... View Article
Turkish Foreign Policy: Tradition, Geopolitics and Ideology in a Changing World Order
The international system is in the process of a profound transformation as the US-led world order continues to be challenged by emerging powers. The unipolar moment captured by the US after the Cold War has been steadily eroding as the distribution of power across the globe has started tilting in favour of multipolarity. The epicentre... View Article
Opening of Public Session
Infodemic: How the International Media Impacted the Pandemic
This session examines the role of the international media in the unprecedented context of the 2020 novel coronavirus pandemic. As countries rushed to implement protective measures against the spread of the virus, it quickly became clear that Covid-19 had become a part of everyday life all around the world. Initial international media coverage of the... View Article
Multipolarity in the Age of Covid-19: The Future of Global Solidarity
As the Covid-19 pandemic spread across the world, much of the world went into retreat and resorted to isolationism. Nationalism, already on the rise in much of the world, was amplified and mechanisms of regional and international solidarity and cooperation appeared unable to deal with the crisis. Today, the credibility of many multilateral institutions is... View Article
What’s Next?: Understanding Health Threats in Times of Hyper-Globalisation
The global pandemic has made the world acutely aware of the strengths and weaknesses of public health care systems around the world. Some governments have been better prepared than others, quicker to respond, have taken the threat more seriously, and have also helped less well-prepared states. As we come closer to the winter months there... View Article
America vs China: Trade Wars, Covid-19 and Future Economic Relations
The two largest economies in the world, the US and China, seem to be on a collision course that has been accelerated by the Covid-19 crisis. Since President Trump came to office, the two superpowers have upped the ante in their economic confrontation. Tensions rose with President Trump’s ambitious plan to close his country’s massive... View Article
New Realities in Foreign Affairs and Interstate Relations after Covid-19
As the world continues to face the Covid-19 pandemic, it has become increasingly clear that certain foundational aspects of world are set to change. While the contours of these changes are still coming into focus a new horizon is slowly beginning to emerge, one that includes the outlines of transformations in, among other things, how... View Article
A World without Travel: The Impact of Pandemic-Related Technological Adaptations on the Future of Industry
For years, we have heard about the need to fly less as part of the effort to lessen our environmental impact. Today, we are imagining a world where significantly reduced travel may come to be a permanent fixture. Airlines forced to cease operations as Covid-19 spread across the world have been slow to resume their... View Article
COVID-19: An Impasse or an Opportunity for a Sustainable Global Order?
The world continues to be faced with a profound crisis due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This extraordinary situation poses a major challenge for governments and multilateral organizations by deepening inequalities between developing and developed economies, giving a boost to nationalist ideologies, and disrupting global supply chains and economic relations. Given this, it can be said... View Article
Politics and Pandemics: Humanitarian Aid in the Time of COVID-19
As the Covid-19 pandemic remains a public health threat in countries around the world, those living in conflict zones and politically unstable environments from Syria and Yemen to Gaza and Lebanon, continue to be among the most vulnerable. While wars may be less frequent than in the past, political and economic instability, failed states and... View Article
The Future of Work and Education: Preparing for a Post-Pandemic World
This session examined the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the lives of people around the world, with a focus on work and education. The Covid-19 pandemic has been labelled as the defining global health challenge of our times, but it is more than that: it is also an unprecedented social and economic crisis, the... View Article
TRT World Forum 2020 Book
In December 2020, TRT World Forum organised its fourth annual Forum under the theme “Shifting Dynamics: The International Order in a Post-Pandemic World”. Due to the unprecedented situation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, TRT World Forum 2020 was held in a digital format. The two-day conference focused on understanding the emergence of a new world... View Article
The EU: A Vote of No Confidence?
The panel “The EU: A Vote of No Confidence?” discussed the future trajectory of the EU regarding the latest developments including Brexit, economic challenges, the refugee crisis, the enlargement process, Turkey’s accession process and the EU values. Commenting on the Brexit, Sayeeda Warsi stated that the Brexit campaign was xenophobic and grounded on misrepresented political... View Article
The Assassination of Jamal Khashoggi: A Reflection of Regional Politics?
The session “The Assassination of Jamal Khashoggi: A Reflection of Regional Politics?” discussed the murder of the prominent Saudi journalist and Washington Post contributor Jamal Khashoggi, which provoked an international outcry and continues to have strategic, political and legal ramifications. The speakers unanimously mentioned that Jamal was a moderate citizen who wanted to make Saudi... View Article
The New Fault Lines in Turkey’s Security Strategy
When the actors are blended in the strong memory of history, international crises are probably the best teachers of destiny of geography. This is especially true for Turkey, as unprecedented volatile circumstances have been unfolding in the Levant since the foundation of the Turkish Republic in 1923. The more Turkey becomes aware of its past,... View Article
Trade Wars and the Risks to Global Growth
The panel “Trade Wars and the Risks to Global Growth” discussed how trade wars, protectionist economic policies, sanctions and tariffs are harmful to global economic growth, peace and prosperity. Former Prime Minister of Turkey Binali Yıldırım, stressed the fast-changing dynamics in the world economy and politics. He emphasised the rise of China and other emerging... View Article
The New Great Game: China, Russia and the US in Central Asia
Central Asia has become a focal point of Asia-Pacific international relations after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Geographically, the region expands from the Caspian Sea to China, and from Afghanistan to Russia. It canvasses Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. In addition to its significant geographical size, the region is also quite... View Article
The United States and Iran: Beating the Drums of War?
On May 8, 2018, Donald Trump announced that the United States would unilaterally withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) (Martellini and Zucchetti, 2016). Along with accusing Tehran of failing to live up to its part of the deal, the US re-imposed economic sanctions that had been previously lifted as part of the... View Article
Environmental Security: Tragedy of Commons
The panel presented a fertile environment for environmental scientists, engineers, social scientists, diplomats and politicians from different countries to discuss not just climate change, but also various immediate environmental problems such as microplastic pollution in the oceans as well as ozone depletion. While coming from different backgrounds, through the lively discussions that took place speakers... View Article
The Future of EU-Turkey Relations
The future of EU- Turkey relations was discussed during the TRT World Forum in both public and closed sessions, from 22-23 October 2019. Approximately 40 participants were present, including experts, politicians, academicians and bureaucrats in the closed session. The speakers shared their own perspectives and experiences who came from different background as academic, diplomat, bureaucrat... View Article
The Future of the Global Liberal Order: Challenges and Prospects
On October 22, 2019 TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting titled “The Future of the Global Liberal Order: Challenges and Prospects”. This was part of a series of roundtable meetings in the two-day TRT World Forum 2019, which included 12 public sessions and 15 closed sessions and nine keynote speeches and exclusive talks. This roundtable... View Article
The Gulf Crisis Two Years On: What Does the Future Hold?
In June 2017, a Saudi-led coalition that included the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Egypt cut their diplomatic relations with Qatar and imposed a land, air and sea blockade on the small Gulf state. The blockading countries accused Qatar of supporting ‘terrorism’ and released a list of 13 demands: the demands included severing ties... View Article
North Africa’s Political Unrest: The Cases of Algeria and Libya
The year 2019 has been turbulent in North Africa, with events in Libya and Algeria emblematic of the wider dynamics at play in the region. The attempts of Libya and Algeria toward political transitions display two distinct representations of a wider revolutionary spirit which has characterised North African politics during this decade. (Laremont, 2013) Although... View Article
The Decline of Collective Action in International Politics The End of Multilateralism?
On Monday, October 21, 2019, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting entitled ‘The Decline of Collective Action in International Politics: The End of Multilateralism?’ The session aimed to discuss one of the most vital questions in international relations: How should states act? Unilaterally or multilaterally? Multilateralism requires states to follow international norms and... View Article
Geopolitical Dimensions of Energy Resources in the Eastern Mediterranean
On October 21, 2019 TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting titled “Geopolitical Dimensions of Energy Resources in the Eastern Mediterranean”. This was part of a series of roundtable meetings in the two-day TRT World Forum 2019, which included 12 public sessions and 15 closed sessions and nine keynote speeches and exclusive talks. This roundtable meeting... View Article
India and Pakistan: A Case Study in Crisis Management
Under the auspices of TRT World Forum 2019, a closed session was held to debate ‘India and Pakistan: A Case Study in Crisis Management’. The discussion during this session primarily remained focussed on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir particularly in the backdrop of India’s decision to end the special status of the Indian Administered... View Article
New Horizons for Emerging Powers: Co-operation or Competition?
The panel “New Horizons for Emerging Powers: Co-operation or Competition?” discussed the future of the world that rests on the relationship between developed and emerging states. Minister of Treasury and Finance of Turkey, Berat Albayrak, in his keynote speech, stated that the world needs a new vision to address modern-day challenges and reduce tensions. Protectionist... View Article
The Middle East at a Crossroad: Regional Responses to Shifting Challenges
The panel “The Middle East at a Crossroad: Regional Responses to Shifting Challenges” focused on a variety of issues ranging from domestic issues facing countries in the region to the implications of the shifting rivalries among different actors in the region. Elaborating on the situation in Tunisia, Rached Ghannouchi pointed to achievements in the country... View Article
Managing Migration: Europe and the Refugee Crisis
The panel “Managing Migration: Europe and the Refugee Crisis”, discussed the future of refugees in Europe. The keynote speaker Francesco Rocca, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, argued that the situation of migrant boats in the Mediterranean Sea is a huge threat to humanitarian action. He spoke about what... View Article
Turkish Foreign Policy: Facing Regional and Global Shifts
The shifts and challenges in global and regional politics were discussed in the Closed Session, including the key opportunities and challenges for Turkish foreign policy in this transition period. According to speakers who came from different backgrounds, including academic, researcher, politician and diplomat, to expertise on Turkish foreign policy, Turkey has become a more potent... View Article
Responding to Humanitarian Crisis in the 21st Century
The world continues to experience the worst humanitarian and refugee crisis since the Second World War. According to the United Nations (UN), war, civil strife and natural disasters have displaced 70.8 million people from their homes. Out of these nearly 71 million people, 41.3 million are internally displaced (IDPs), 25.9 million are refugees and 3.5... View Article
The Predicament of Political Legitimacy in the MENA Region
In 1977, Michael C. Hudson claimed that the central problem of government in the Arab world was political illegitimacy. After 40 years, in early 2011, the onset of mass revolts in large parts of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) have highlighted the key relevance of the question of political legitimacy in MENA countries.... View Article
The Allure of Identity Politics in a Globalised World
The panel “The Allure of Identity Politics in a Globalised World” discussed the current increasein social and political instability that has ignited economic, religious and ethnic divisions in various societies around the world. In his keynote speech, leader of the Pakatan Harapan Coalition and President of People’s Justice Party of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, stated that... View Article
Counter Terrorism in the Post-Daesh Era
For years, Daesh – otherwise known as ISIS or ISIL – has been at the forefront of global counter-terrorism concerns due to its territorial ambitions and the particularly gruesome and theatrical manner in which it has conducted its attacks (Weiss and Hassan, 2015). However, as dangerous and as brutal as the jihadist terror group is,... View Article
NATO under the Gun: The Emergence of New Security Challenges
The session ‘NATO under the Gun: Emergence of New Security Challenges’ discussed the efficacy and relevance of NATO in the face of new security challenges. The keynote speaker, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar, underlined the importance of NATO in ensuring transatlantic security since the end of Second World War. Minister Akar, then elaborated on the... View Article
The Threat of Far-right Extremism: War on Terror 2.0?
The session ‘the Threat of Far-Right Extremism’ discussed the divergent understandings of terrorism, the reasons behind the rise of far-right, the role of social media, the challenges that come with it and how to tackle these problems. Bosniak member of the Bosnian Presidency Sefik Dzaferovic stated that extremism and terrorism can be overcome through solidarity... View Article
Demystifying Turkey’s Operation Peace Spring
The session ‘Demystifying Turkey’s Operation Peace Spring’ discussed Turkey’s recent military operation to eliminate the terrorist threat from the PKK/YPG in Northeast Syria. The keynote speaker, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, explained Turkey’s policy towards Syria and what Turkey wants in the country. FM Çavuşoğlu said that Turkey believes that there is no military solution... View Article
The Future of Turkey-US Relations: Political and Security Dimensions
The Panel “The Future of Turkey-US Relations: Political and Security Dimensions” discussed the roots of the current tension between Turkey and the US and its future trajectory. Regarding the alignment between the US and PKK’s Syrian offshoot, the YPG, Kılıç Buğra Kanat highlighted that a pattern characterized by US disregard of Turkey’s security concerns has... View Article
Pursuit of Justice in a Fragmented World
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan opened his speech by recalling the importance of learning lessons from history, and reiterated that if only people were to take heed, history would not repeat itself. He criticised the UN for its inability to provide solutions to global issues. He pointed to the ineffectiveness of the global system in... View Article
The Political Atmosphere in Egypt: Reconciliation or Regression?
On October 4, 2018 TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on ‘The Political Atmosphere in Egypt: Reconciliation or Regression?’ This was part of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018. Once perceived as one of the icons of the Arab Spring, Egypt has come to symbolise the... View Article
TRT World Forum 2019 Book
In October 2019 TRT World Forum organised its third annual Forum under the theme “Globalisation in Retreat: Challenges and Opportunities”. During the two-day forum more than 1500 esteemed speakers and guests, including politicians, academics, journalists and members of civil society engaged in stimulating discussions on the challenges that lay before our world. This book includes... View Article
TRT World Forum 2019 Closed Sessions Book
In October 2019 TRT World Forum organised its third annual Forum under the theme “Globalisation in Retreat: Challenges and Opportunities”. During the two-day forum more than 1500 esteemed speakers and participants, including politicians, academics, journalists and members of civil society engaged in stimulating discussions on the challenges that lay before our world. As part of... View Article
The Fate of Palestine: The Crisis Deepens
On October 4, 2018, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on the developments taking place in Palestine. This was part of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included eight public sessions and 11 closed sessions. This roundtable meeting was held in English under the... View Article
Fostering Global Consciousness in Times of Crisis
The ongoing refugee crisis represents the most significant humanitarian tragedy since World War II. Ongoing conflicts in Syria, Yemen and Afghanistan, along with difficult security and economic environments throughout significant portions of the Middle East, Africa and parts of Asia have led millions of people to leave their homelands in search of refuge and a... View Article
Keynote Speech by HM Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan
Queen Rania begins by praising Turkey’s steadfast commitment to the millions of refugees it has welcomed inside its borders and its geostrategic significance in the region. On the other hand, Her Majesty pointed to the fact that even if nations share different worldviews, rooted deep in the core of our humanity, we share the same... View Article
Turkey’s Foreign Policy in an Age of Crises
On October 4th, 2018, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting with the title of ‘Turkey’s Foreign Policy in an Age of Crises’. This was part of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included 8 public sessions and 11 closed sessions. This roundtable meeting was... View Article
Closing Ranks: International Cooperation against Terrorism
The session “Closing Ranks: International Cooperation against Terrorism”, brought together experts and leading practitioners in order to discuss current challenges facing counter-terrorism cooperation around the world. The speakers addressed a variety of issues related to terrorism, including root causes and possible solutions moving forward. As part of the session, the panellists advanced various ways in... View Article
Turkey’s Security Policy: National Defence Industry and Cross Border Operations
On October 4 2018, the TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on Turkey’s Security Policy: National Defence Industry and Cross Border Operations. This was part of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included eight public sessions and 11 closed sessions. Turkey’s security policy has... View Article
A Crisis of Connectivity: New Media and Trust-Formation
With increased digital transformation comes increased complexity and ambiguity. Users of new media technologies are now able to actively monitor and be a part of international events, aggregate and filter news and add their viewpoints to any given story’s narrative. As the world increasingly embraces digitisation, communication via digital platforms is increasingly raising questions regarding... View Article
Muslim Minorities of South Asia
On October 4, 2018 TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on the “Muslim Minorities of South Asia.” This was part of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included eight public sessions and 11 closed sessions. This closed session was held in English under the... View Article
Exploring a Just Peace in a Fragmented World
The geopolitical order today remains constantly fragmented due to the pervasiveness of an unequal administrative and institutional directive. Therefore, addressing and taking steps to limit divisive policies across the globe becomes a subject to be addressed amongst major stakeholders. Correspondingly, persisting inequalities cannot be addressed without a co-operative social justice system. This makes it necessary... View Article
Perpetuating or Breaking the Syrian Stalemate?
On October 4, 2018, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on the Syrian crisis entitled “Perpetuating or Breaking the Syrian Stalemate.” This was part of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included eight public sessions and 11 closed sessions. This roundtable meeting was held... View Article
Western Mainstream Media and Coverage of the Muslim World
On October 4, 2018, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on Western Mainstream Media and Coverage of the Muslim World. This was part of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included eight public sessions and 11 closed sessions. This roundtable meeting was held in... View Article
Regional Players and the Shifting Security Equation in the Middle East
The future of the Middle East remains one of the most hotly debated and controversial issues of today. Intermittent conflict remains a defining feature of the region, with the Syrian war being the most recent example. “Regional Players and the Shifting Security Equation in the Middle East,” discussed the many issues ranging from conflicts to... View Article
Turkey’s Political Landscape under the New Presidential System
On October 4, 2018 TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting titled “Turkey’s Political Landscape under the New Presidential System”. This was part of a series of roundtable meetings in the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included eight public sessions and 11 closed sessions. This roundtable meeting was held in English under the... View Article
Belt and Road Initiative and its Implications for MENA
On October 3, 2018, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This session aimed to discuss the opportunities and challenges of China’s Belt and Road Initiative for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The BRI is a comprehensive connectivity and cooperation plan that spans three continents,... View Article
The Leadership of Women in a World of Conflict
Historically, women have faced gender-based violence and discrimination for a variety of reasons. They have experienced major obstacles including restrictions in education, the work place and in their own homes. Today, in a world marked by rampant conflict, there is an urgent need for increased female empowerment and leadership. Despite the widespread restrictions imposed upon... View Article
Disrupting the Established Order: Rise of the Global South
The panel “Disrupting the Established Order: Rise of the Global South” discussed issues surrounding the established current world order and explored the new emerging players in the international arena that have the potential to change and shift the power dynamics. In the current international world order, countries use their respective economic powers to pursue their... View Article
The EU and Its Discontents: Is it the End of the European Project?
The European Union (EU) has been referred to as one of the most successful post- Second World War projects, helping maintain peace and prosperity in Europe for over six decades. However, there have been increasing concerns about its future. Economic problems within the Eurozone have led to significant political turmoil among the member states, posing... View Article
Activities of Terrorist Groups Abroad: FETO and PKK
On October 3, 2018, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on the Activities of Terrorist Groups Abroad. This was one of a series of roundtable meetings forming part of the two-day TRT World Forum 2018, which included 8 public sessions and 11 closed sessions. The roundtable meetings were held in English under the... View Article
A World in or Out of Order: A Hundred Years since WWI
The current world order, composed of nation-states, emerged in its currently recognisable form early in the 20th century. While the “Great War” of 1914-18 led to the consolidation of the British and French Empires, it also resulted in the collapse of three other centuries- old entities: the Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Russian Empires (following the Bolshevik... View Article
Opening Speech: Envisioning Peace and Security in a Fragmented World
President of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey Binali Yıldırım and Director General and Chairman of TRT İbrahim Eren delivered keynote speeches at the opening ceremony of the TRT World Forum and highlighted a wide range of issues that are of primary interest to peace and security in today’s increasingly fragmented world. İbrahim Eren, Director... View Article
Is there a Trump Doctrine in American Foreign Policy?
On October 3, 2018, TRT World Research Centre held a roundtable meeting on U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration. Even before President Trump took office, the question of how the new administration would approach U.S. foreign policy had become an issue of discussion. As Trump approaches two years in office, scholars, journalists and pundits... View Article
TRT World Forum 2018 Book
The TRT World Forum 2018, a two-day summit organised by the TRT World Research Centre, brought together a wide array of distinguished academics, journalists, politicians and members of civil society to analyse and discuss some of the most important questions that continue to define our world on the theme of ‘Envisioning Peace and Security in... View Article
Closing Speech: Inspiring Change in an Age of Uncertainty
His Excellency President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan participated as the guest of honour in the TRT World Forum 2017 to give the keynote speech at the Forum under the moderation of Fatih Er, Director of News and Programmes at TRT World. President Erdoğan’s remarks spanned from the failure of the current global order in sustaining the... View Article
Setting an Example: Turkey’s Humanitarian Role
This session mainly discussed Turkey’s current position as a leading humanitarian actor in the international arena. Turkey, as a rising power, has been playing a crucial role in the humanitarian field in the last 15 years, presenting new strategies for humanitarian activism around the world. In 2017, the Global Humanitarian Assistance Report ranked Turkey as... View Article
Big Business For Big Solutions: Encouraging Corporate Social Responsibility
This session discussed the role that big businesses and entrepreneurs play in effecting social development and change. Considering that the international community is failing to react quickly and effectively to the emerging problems of third world countries, this responsibility falls on the shoulders of big businesses. As opposed to traditional approaches, big businesses and organisations... View Article
The Gulf Crisis and Geopolitical Tensions in the Gulf Region
On Monday, 5 June 2017, three GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE Bahrain) and Egypt cut their diplomatic relationships with Doha. This unprecedented crisis in the history of inter-Gulf relations has created a state of mistrust, not only among the governments of the Gulf States, but also among the citizens of those countries. This session discussed... View Article
Digital Influencers and Their Role in Shaping Public Discourse
As digital media on mobile devices is the primary platform of communication with the outside world, the rise of digital influencers continues to grow. Community leaders and celebrities have been replaced by individuals who gain popularity on social media. The popularity of influencers on YouTube highlights how young people who create content on digital platforms... View Article
Capitalizing on Fear: The Politicization of Xenophobia and Islamophobia
This session discussed the current upsurge of xenophobia and Islamophobia in Europe and North America. Both problematic discourses operate at various levels of intensity, from outright anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant political campaigns to depict any disadvantaged or marginalised segment of society – including women, as the ‘other’ through film, media or numerous educational platforms. The potency... View Article
Transforming Humanitarian Aid: A Refined Approach
This session dealt with transforming the conventional humanitarian aid system towards a more refined assistance approach. It kicked off with two fundamental questions posted to the panellists: 1) Why is humanitarian aid necessary? 2) Where does it go and who decides where it goes? The session involved serious debate on the most effective ways to... View Article
Shockwaves of the War in Syria
The Syrian issue has come to be one of the hottest topics of the global agenda regarding the Middle East. This is further complicated by the involvement and intervention of both regional and major global powers. In the closed session of TRT World Forum titled “Shockwaves of the War in Syria”, Turkish, Syrian, Iranian, and... View Article
We Are All In the Same Boat: Regional Cooperation to Address the Humanitarian Crisis
The second day of the TRT World Forum 2017 opened with a joint keynote speech by José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, the former Prime Minister of Spain, and Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey. The main theme of their speech was the lack of international cooperation in addressing pressing global issues. They particularly... View Article
The Impact of the July 15 Coup Attempt on Turkish State and Society
In this session, a distinguished panel of speakers and participants convened to explore the origins, impact and lasting legacy of the brutal coup attempt in Turkey, in which many innocent civilians lost their lives and thousands were injured. During the night of July 15, 2016, a group of soldiers attempted to overthrow the democratically elected... View Article
Confronting Global Terror
This session primarily dealt with the question of how to develop a comprehensive strategy to counter global terrorism. The rise of global terrorism has created an atmosphere of fear across the globe affecting many countries in different continents. With advances in communication and transportation technology due to the processes of globalisation, local groups now have... View Article
Re-thinking Media: Responsible Reporting on Humanitarian Crises
The session discussed ‘responsible journalism’ and how the term ‘objectivity’ needs to be rephrased in relation to reporting on war zones. Secondly, panellists discussed the role and impact of emerging new technology in giving a voice to the voiceless. With the advent of social media, ordinary people can now broadcast what is happening on their... View Article
Developing Counter-Narratives to the Far-Right
This session focused on far-right movements, parties and their effects on politics and social life. It was emphasized that far-right political parties are increasingly supported more in the West, especially in European countries due to fluctuations in the economy and the increase in unemployment. Another important factor in the rise of the far-right movements is... View Article
Emerging Trends and New Threats in MENA Region
This session delved into topics most pertaining to the Middle East today and which have affected the course of events regionally and globally over the past six years. The panelist explored both theoretical and practical aspects of the threats and trends the MENA region is passing through at the present time. Middle Eastern states will... View Article
Redefining the Global Agenda: Old Guard versus New Players
This session discussed issues surrounding the established current world order and explored the players in the international arena that have the potential to change and shift the power equilibria. One of the first questions of debate was on defining the established global order to explore the subject more appropriately on a common ground. Participants discussed... View Article
Turkey’s Foreign Policy: New Directions and Challenges
The closed session, ‘Turkey’s Foreign Policy: New Directions and Challenges’ was held on October 18, 2017 with the participation of highly esteemed politicians, academics and policy experts from all over the globe. The session primarily dealt with the general landscape and contours of Turkey’s foreign policy, its main pillars and its changing dynamics. After presentations... View Article
Opening Ceremony: Inspiring Change in an Age of Uncertainty
Unceasing demands for change and potential threats today challenge the contours of the global political agenda and inevitably urge numerous actors to come up with a vision for change. By bringing together politicians, academics, diplomats and NGO leaders of all backgrounds, discussions varied from the redefinition of the global agenda to the politicisation of xenophobia... View Article
TRT World Forum 2017 Book
The TRT World Forum 2017, a two-day summit organised by the TRT World Research Centre, gathered academics, politicians, journalists, experts and members of civil society to discuss the most pertinent issues in the world today. This year’s theme `Inspiring Change in an Age of Uncertainty’ sparked fierce debate around the hurdles that contribute to the... View Article
Is 2023 Annus Horribilis for Tech & Media?
Many pointers indicate that 2023 will be a tough year for the tech and media sectors. Since the start of the year, 297 tech companies furloughed nearly 95,000 workers and the big tech players also known as GAFAM (Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft) embarked on an austerity drive cutting costs at every corner. This... View Article
The Rise of Wagner in Russian Politics
Private military companies (PMCs) have carved out a niche for them in warfare. Some governments resort to them to avoid higher political and military costs. PMCs in the US and Europe offer services such as supporting the military with logistics, safeguarding convoys, securing facilities, and training personnel. (Foley & Kaunert, 2022, pp. 179-180). They also... View Article