Turkish Forum

Author: Aylin D. Miller

  • Craziest Muslim Country

    Craziest Muslim Country

    Though Turkey is now Turkiye and is not a Muslim country, it is worth watching the video if you are planning to visit Turkiye.

    This video, “Revealing Life in Turkey,” invites you to embark on a journey not through the lens of sensationalized labels like “craziest Muslim country,” but through the vibrant kaleidoscope of Turkey’s true essence.

    Join us on this Turkey travel vlog as we unveil 55 amazing facts, revealing a land where history whispers in ancient ruins, nature explodes in diverse landscapes, and culture dances in every cup of steaming Turkish tea.

    Nestled at the crossroads of continents, Turkey is a tapestry woven from the threads of empires past. The Black Sea washes its northern shores, while Mount Ararat stands sentinel in the east.

    While Islam forms a vital part of Turkish life, it’s only one thread in the intricate tapestry. Since 1927, Turkey has proudly embraced secularism, respecting and celebrating the diversity of faiths that have called this land home.

    Here, the call to prayer mingles with the clinking of teacups, a daily ritual that unites Turks across every belief.

    From the majestic Taurus Mountains to the sparkling turquoise waters of the Aegean, nature paints its own masterpiece across the land.

    It’s a land where the echoes of civilization’s past blend with the laughter of children playing in bustling streets. It’s a canvas painted by history, nature, and the vibrant spirit of its people.

    Let’s step beyond the labels and explore the tapestry of Turkey, its every thread waiting to unravel a story unlike any other.

    The travel trails turkey: This is woven into the very fabric of the narrative, inviting you on a journey through diverse landscapes and experiences.

    Turkey earthquake: While not the main focus, the content acknowledges the recent earthquake and its impact on the country.

    Revealing life in Turkey: This forms the core theme of the video, offering a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the Turkish people.

    Life in Turkey Vlog: The style of the writing feels like a personal vlog, sharing insights and experiences rather than providing dry facts.

    Real life in Istanbul: You’ll get a taste of everyday life in Istanbul, from bustling bazaars to the mesmerizing dance of the dervishes.

    life in Turkey village: We offer glimpses into the rural life of Turkey, where traditions hold strong and nature takes center stage.

    life in Turkey istanbul: Istanbul serves as a window into the modern face of Turkey, a vibrant city where ancient meets contemporary.

    Life in Istanbul: Again, we delve into the daily rhythms and cultural nuances of life in Istanbul.

    This is Turkey: This phrase is woven throughout the text, painting a vivid picture of the country’s diverse tapestry.

    concubines in Turkey: While this topic is not directly addressed, the content emphasizes the secular nature of modern Turkey and avoids perpetuating historical stereotypes.

    Turkey and reveals: The video itself aims to reveal the true essence of Turkey, beyond sensationalized labels and headlines.

    Turkey earthquake news: As mentioned earlier, the video acknowledges the recent earthquake and its impact on the country.

    The cost of living in Turkey 2023 or living in Alanya turkey: According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Turkey is 56.5% lower than in the United States. Rent in Turkey is also 73.4% lower than in the United States.

    Moving to Turkey 2023: If you are planning on moving to Turkey then it might be a cultural shock for you depending upon the country you are living in. So, Choose wisely and do your research before moving.

  • Bircan Ünver received the “ANUVRAT AHIMSA AWARD FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE-2023”

    Bircan Ünver received the “ANUVRAT AHIMSA AWARD FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE-2023”

    “ANUVRAT AHIMSA AWARD FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE-2023”

    Subject: Bircan Ünver received the “Anuvrat Ahimsa Award for International Peace-2023” in Mumbai, India on January 30, 2024.

    Founder of the Republic Of Türkiye, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (1981-1938), not only envisioned but worked extremely hard to invest in and build up toward, “Peace at Home, Peace in the World“, in particular, followed by the formation of the Republic of Türkiye on October 29, 2023.

    In spirit, as one of the grand-daughters of Atatürk, I am greatly honored and excited to receive the Anuvrat Ahimsa Award for International Peace-2023 by Anuvrat Vishva Bharati Society in Mumbai, India on January 30, 2024.

    I have been committed to working towards seeding peace, nonviolent, and seeking the truth over decades as a self-mission, along with through the works of the Light Millennium Global Organization (introduced on the web in August 1999) for nearly a quarter century.

    This effort has intersected our paths with Dr. Sohan Lal Gandhi & Anuvrat Global Organization through the #UNDGC (formerly UN Department of Information UN.DPI/NGO) at the United Nations since both organizations were already associated with the UN.DPI/NGO in 2007.

    Consequently, I participated as a keynote speaker in the 7th ICPNA – International Conference on Peace and Nonviolent Action, which was dedicated to the “Non-Violent Lifestyle” theme in Jaipur, India in 2008, then it followed in 2014 and 2019 in Delhi. In this line, the upcoming 11th ICPNA‘s theme is:

    “Only Nonviolence Can Guarantee World Peace and Environmental Sustainability”

    The 11th ICPNA will be presented virtually on February 13-26, 2024.
    For more information, please visit: https://icpna.anuvibha.org/#/flow?lang=en

    Over the years, we have been collaborating with the Anuvrat Global Organization on various concepts such as #NonViolentLifeStyle, #Gandhi149, #Gandhi150, #GandhiAndEnvironment (on several occasions), and #UNCivilSociety conference-related programs.
    In particular, after working on several Gandhi and nonviolent related programs, which inspired me to visit Gandhi Museums in India.

    Consequently, I have visited two Gandhi Museums in Delhi (in 2019), Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad (in 2019 & 2024); Gandhi Home Museum in Mumbai (2024). All these further inspired me to continue working on the “Nonviolent” and “Seeking the Truth” concepts. As Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) powerfully stated the following: “Truth is God“, and in His 11 principles and “Life of Tree”,  “Nonviolent” & “Truth” are at the core. (Ref. Gandhi Ashram, Ahmedabad, India.)

    In this background, I am grateful to Dr. S.L. Gandhi, who nominated and made sure to present this award to me in the presence of H.H. Acharya Mahashraman before I left Mumbai on Jan. 30, 2024.

    Indeed, it was a great honor, excitement, and surprise to receive the Anuvrat’s 2023 International Peace Award, which has enormously motivated me to continue working in this line toward expanding our reach and engaging with as many organizations and people collaboratively as we can from all walks of life.

    Despite all the scheduling challenges, the Director of the Children Peace Palace, Mr. Sanchay Jain in Rajsamand, Udaipur, the President of the Anuvrat, Mr. Avinash Nahar, General Secretary Mr. Bhikam Surana, along with the Anuvrat’s volunteer Mr. Deepak Jain, all together as a joint collaborative effort, they made it possible.

    To that extent, I would like to acknowledge Mr. Arvind Vora, who is the key contact of the Anuvrat Global Organization at the United Nations based in New York, and co-founder of the Shanti Fund.

    This was an unexpected, further empowering, and utmost symbolizing finale of my trip to India, along with many other honorable recognitions and exciting programs, which was started on the 3rd of Jan. 2024, and concluded by the 1st of Feb. 2024.

    Once again,  I would like to thank wholeheartedly Dr. S.L. Gandhi and the Anuvrat Vishva Bharati Society, along withall who made it possible.

    Greetings to you all from Istanbul…

    With peace, love, light, and working together toward a nonviolent world!


    Bircan Ünver, Founder-President & Head NGO Rep. of
    The Light Millennium, Charitable 
    Global Human Advancement Organization to the
    United Nations Department of Global Communications (since 2005)
    www.lmglobal.org | www.lightmillennium.org

  • Fall of Jerusalem

    Fall of Jerusalem

    The Fall of Jerusalem during the Ottoman Empire occurred in 1917 during World War I. The Ottoman Empire, which was aligned with the Central Powers, was engaged in conflict with the Allied Powers, including British forces in the Middle East. Jerusalem, a city of significant religious and historical importance, was part of the Ottoman Empire at that time.

    In 1917, General Edmund Allenby led British and Empire forces in the Sinai and Palestine Campaign against the Ottoman forces. The campaign aimed to capture strategic territories in the Middle East, including Jerusalem. On December 9, 1917, British forces approached Jerusalem, and the Ottoman garrison in the city, under the command of Mayor Hussein al-Husseini, surrendered to the British without significant resistance.

    General Allenby, in a symbolic gesture, entered Jerusalem on foot through the Jaffa Gate on December 11, 1917. This event marked the end of Ottoman rule in Jerusalem after centuries of control. The fall of Jerusalem was a pivotal moment in the Middle Eastern theater of World War I, and it had significant implications for the subsequent geopolitical developments in the region.

    After the fall of Jerusalem, the British Mandate for Palestine was established, and the League of Nations granted Britain the mandate to govern the territory. The fall of Jerusalem is remembered for its historical, cultural, and religious significance, as the city holds sacred sites for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

    The Battle of Jerusalem occurred in Palestine Campaign during World War I between British Empire against the Ottoman Empire. Fighting for the city developed from 17 November, continuing until surrender of the Holy city in 30 December 1917. After the fall of Ottoman ‘Gaza Line’ between Beersheba and Gaza in October-November 1917. Ottoman retreated north and form defensive line between Aqaba in the Red Sea and Jafa in mediterranean coast. Port cty of Aqaba quickly fell to the British backed Hashemite rebels in July. Whle the Ottomans defended itself fron two front attack from British advance in Sinai and Hashemite rebel attack from Hejaz.

    This series of battles was successfully fought by the British Empire’s XX Corps, XXI Corps,Desert Mounted Corps and Hashemite rebels against strong opposition from the Yildirim Army Group’s Seventh Army in the Judean Hills and the Eighth Army north of Jaffa on the Mediterranean coast. The loss of Jaffa and Jerusalem, constituted a grave setback for the Ottoman Empire.

    Clip taken from :
    The Great Arab Revolt (2016)
    Son Mektup (2015)
    Gelibolu (2005)
    Çanakkale 1915 (2015)
    Gallipoli (2015)
    Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
    The Water Diviner (2014)
    Gallipoli (1981)
    The Lighthorsemen (1987)
    Адмиралъ (2008)
    The Russian Revolution (2017)
    Murder on the Orient Express (2017)
    Dschihad für den Kaiser (2016)
    Wonder Woman (2017)
    Flyboys (2006)

  • Provincial Universities: The AK Party’s Backyard Campus

    Provincial Universities: The AK Party’s Backyard Campus

    Tuğba Tekerek on the crisis in Turkish academia

    William Armstrong

    January 30

    Turkey Book Talk #211 – Tuğba Tekerek, journalist and author, on “Taşra Üniversiteleri – AK Parti’nin Arka Kampüsü” (Provincial Universities: The AK Party’s Backyard Campus), published by İletişim.

    The book examines the impact of the government’s push to open over 100 universities across Turkey over the last two decades. It paints a picture of falling academic standards but increased outlets for the ruling party’s religious nationalist ideology.

  • Greetings to you all from India

    Greetings to you all from India

    Turkish Forum Advisory Board Member Ms. Unver has a letter from India.

    Greetings to you all from India,

    Today, as of January 19; I gave 2 lectures to different Secondary and High School students in Rajsamand, introduced The Light Millennium Global, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, J.U.C. Awards, Water Action Decade.

    SDG-6, and Gandhi’s philosophy and vision on nonviolence, along with our collaboration with the Anuvrat (Anuvibha) Global Organization and UNDGC associations.

    Tomr. morning, I will leave of the Children Peace Palace here to Ahmedabad, from there to Chennai. I would like to thank with full heartily to Dr. S.L. Gandhi, Arvind Vora and Sanchay Jain for the kindest invitation, which turned out one of the best experiences that I had have so far in India.

    The visited schools are:

    1. Bal Niketan Gandhi Seva Sadan (E.M) School (300 students);

    2. Pragati Secondary School (approx 70 students).

    I also thank to my translator; Monica, Tanisha (who took the photos) and Lehru and Jagdish; along with to the principles and teachers of the each school.

    Bircan Unver

  • Russia could attack the West ???

    Russia could attack the West ???

    That’s what it’s all about:

    According to the Bild newspaper, the German Bundeswehr is studying scenarios in which Russia could attack the West bevor the summer. The situation could escalate in the coming winter, the document continues.

    In the summer of 2025, NATO could finally deploy 300,000 troops to Ukraine’s eastern flank. While Ukraine is aiming for a summit at the highest level on its peace plan, Russian President Vladimir Putin probably has other intentions: According to a training plan of the German Defense Ministry, the Kremlin chief could prepare a hybrid attack on NATO as early as next winter. This is reported by the “Bild” newspaper.

    In the secret report, the German Defense Ministry outlines in detail a possible “path to conflict” between Russia and the Western defense alliance. Month after month, both Russian and Western actions are described. Among other things, the Bundeswehr expects the mobilization of hundreds of thousands of NATO soldiers and an imminent outbreak of war in the summer of 2025, according to the “Bild”. Large-scale Russian manoeuvres from September Russia wants to call up another 200,000 men into the army soon to launch a new offensive against Ukraine in the spring.

    In the summer months, Russia would then begin increasingly open attacks on the West – including through severe cyberattacks. The large-scale “Zapad 2024” manoeuvre with 50,000 troops is scheduled to start in western Russia and Belarus in September.

    At the end of the year, there would be a Russian invasion of areas of eastern Ukraine, whereupon NATO is to deploy around 300,000 soldiers to Ukraine’s eastern flank on the so-called “Day X” in the summer of 2025. Different scenarios considered The Ministry of Defense declined to comment on the information.

    Only this much: “Basically, I can tell you that the consideration of different scenarios – even if they are extremely unlikely – is part of everyday military business, especially in training,” a spokesman for the ministry told Bild. Just last week, Swedish security experts warned of the danger of war with Russia. “Many have said it before me, but let me say it by virtue of my office: there could be a war in Sweden,” said Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Sweden’s Minister of Civil Protection.

    Everyone must prepare for the worst-case scenario, such as a war with Russia, before it is too late, Bohlin said.