Bridging Misconceptions: Turkiye’s Modern Identity and Istanbul’s Rise
- Latoyaa Roberts-Thomas
- May 15
- 4 min read
In Western discourse, Türkiye is often simplistically categorized as part of the Middle East, which is technically true, but this statement overshadows the country’s unique historical trajectory and contemporary developments. This perspective overlooks Türkiye's distinct identity as a secular, modern nation with deep-rooted cultural ties to both Europe and Asia. Central to this narrative is Istanbul, a city that epitomizes Türkiye's blend of tradition and modernity.
The Republic of Türkiye was established in 1923 under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who implemented a series of radical reforms aimed at modernizing the nation. These reforms, known as Atatürk's reforms, included the adoption of the Latin alphabet, the introduction of a secular legal system, and the promotion of gender equality, etc. Atatürk's vision was to create a secular, democratic state that could stand alongside Western nations while still paying reference to Islamic history and culture.
Istanbul: A Modern Metropolis Bridging Continents
Istanbul, uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has solidified its status as a vibrant metropolis embodying Türkiye's modern aspirations. Once the heart of the Ottoman Empire, the city was transformed into a dynamic hub of culture, commerce, and innovation. In 2024, Istanbul ranked as the second most visited city globally, welcoming approximately 23 million international visitors, a testament to its enduring allure and strategic significance. [1]
The city's appeal lies in its seamless blend of historical heritage and contemporary vibrancy. Landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace coexist with modern art galleries, bustling cafes, and a thriving culinary scene that reflects a fusion of Eastern and Western influences. Neighborhoods like Karaköy and Galata have emerged as centers of creativity, housing art studios, design boutiques, and co-working spaces that attract a global community.
Economically, Istanbul serves as a pivotal trade exchange between Europe and Asia. The city's strategic location has facilitated its role as a major logistics and business hub, with robust connections to various international markets. The expansion of Istanbul Airport, poised to become the world's largest aviation hub with plans to accommodate up to 200 million passengers annually by 2028, underscores the city's growing importance in global connectivity.
Moreover, Istanbul's integration into the EU-Türkiye Customs Union has significantly bolstered trade relations, with bilateral trade reaching a record high of nearly €206 billion in 2023. This economic vitality is complemented by the city's commitment to cultural preservation and innovation, making Istanbul not only a bridge between continents but also a symbol of Türkiye's evolving identity in the 21st century.[2]
Challenging Western Misconceptions: Türkiye's Unique Secular Identity
Western narratives often conflate Türkiye with the broader Middle East, overlooking its distinct secular framework and European affiliations. This oversimplification neglects the complexities of Türkiye's political and cultural landscape.
Türkiye's secularism, known as laiklik, was institutionalized under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who founded the Republic in 1923. Atatürk's reforms abolished the Ottoman Caliphate, disbanded religious courts, and replaced Islamic law with a secular civil code. The 1928 constitutional amendment removed Islam as the state religion, and by 1937, secularism was explicitly stated in the constitution. These measures aimed to modernize Turkey and align it with Western nations’ thinking and standards of a modern state.
Despite these secular foundations, recent decades have seen challenges to this identity. There is obviously a dilemma between the thrive for modernization versa keeping the authentic identity of this unique nation. Under the leadership of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, there has been a gradual shift towards incorporating Islamic elements into public life. For instance, the expansion of the Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) has led to increased funding for Sunni Islamic education and the construction of mosques, while minority religious groups like Alevis have faced marginalization. [3]
Moreover, debates over constitutional reforms have sparked concerns about the erosion of secularism. In 2016, the parliamentary speaker suggested that Türkiye should adopt a religious constitution, arguing that secularism should not feature in the new charter. [4]
Nevertheless, secularism remains a core value for many Turks. Mass protests, such as the Republic Protests in 2007 or in April 2025, the protest due to the arrest of a series of members of the opposition party demonstrated widespread public support for maintaining a secular state.
While Western perspectives often mischaracterize Türkiye by overlooking its unique secular and European-oriented identity, the nation's history and ongoing public discourse reflect a complex interplay between secularism and religion. Recognizing this nuance is essential for a comprehensive understanding of Türkiye's place in the global context.
Conclusion
Türkiye's journey has not been without challenges. In recent years, debates have emerged regarding the role of religion in public life, with some scholars arguing that secularism has been eroded under certain administrations. However, the nation's democratic institutions and civil society continue to play a crucial role in upholding secular principles.
Türkiye's identity as a secular, modern nation is deeply embedded in its history and continues to evolve amidst contemporary challenges. Istanbul stands as a testament to this evolution, showcasing a city that harmoniously blends its rich heritage with modern innovation. Recognizing and appreciating Türkiye's unique position can foster a more nuanced understanding, bridging the gap between perception and reality.
[1]:https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/turkeys-flawed-secularism--8588 Turkey’s flawed secularism by Eldar Mamedov
[3]:https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2024/03/31/sebnem-gumuscu-expert-in-political-islam-turkish-secularism-is-nothing-but-an-empty-shell_6666904_4.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com "SebnemGumuscu, expert in political Islam: Turkish secularism is nothing but an empty shell'"
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