[Türkiye Watch #01] The Transformation of a Nation – From Turkey to Türkiye

 Explore the historical shift from Turkey to Türkiye, highlighting the cultural and political significance behind the nation’s name change and its evolving identity

In 2022, Turkey officially changed its international name to Türkiye, marking a significant moment in the country's modern history. This shift is more than just a linguistic alteration; it represents a deeper cultural and political transformation. For centuries, the name "Turkey" has been the common term used by the international community to refer to this nation that spans two continents. However, the Turkish government, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, made the decision to adopt the name "Türkiye" to strengthen the nation’s identity on the global stage.

In this first edition of Türkiye Watch, we explore the significance of this name change, its cultural implications, and how this marks a new chapter for a nation that has been shaped by its unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

The Name Change: Symbolizing a Nation’s Reclaiming of Identity

The shift from "Turkey" to "Türkiye" is not simply a matter of semantics; it reflects a deliberate attempt to assert the country's identity in the modern world. The term "Turkey" has been historically used by foreign powers and the international community, often in a colonial context. It is associated with Western narratives, and the country’s cultural and historical identity has often been diluted or misrepresented.

The term "Türkiye," on the other hand, is the native name of the country in the Turkish language. By adopting this name internationally, the Turkish government aims to reclaim ownership of its identity, aligning the country’s global recognition with its linguistic and cultural heritage. The move also reflects the nation’s desire to modernize and assert its sovereignty on the world stage, setting itself apart from the historical influences that have shaped its past.

The Cultural Significance of the Name Change

The name change is deeply symbolic, as it is tied to the concept of national pride and cultural authenticity. By using the name "Türkiye," the country reinforces its Turkish identity, which is inextricably linked to its Ottoman past, rich cultural heritage, and modern transformation.

Historically, the Ottoman Empire ruled vast territories across Europe, Asia, and Africa, and the legacy of the Ottomans remains central to the country's cultural identity. However, after the fall of the empire and the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, the country underwent a transformation towards modernization and Westernization. The adoption of the name "Türkiye" represents a return to Turkish roots, a rejection of the colonial and Westernized past, and an embrace of the nation’s unique cultural legacy.

International Reactions to the Name Change

The global response to the name change has been mixed. Some countries and international organizations have adopted the name "Türkiye" without question, recognizing the importance of the country's self-identification. However, others have been slower to adjust, and some still refer to the country as "Turkey."

The United Nations, for example, officially recognized the name "Türkiye" in 2022, following Turkey’s formal request. The name change has been widely adopted in diplomatic circles, and Turkish embassies and consulates around the world have updated their official documents to reflect the new name.

However, this transition is not without challenges. The international community’s resistance to change is natural, as “Turkey” has been the widely recognized name for centuries. Over time, however, it is expected that “Türkiye” will become the standard term used globally, particularly as international branding and cultural diplomacy increasingly reflect the country’s self-defined identity.

Türkiye’s Strategic Position: A Bridge Between East and West

The name change is also a reflection of Türkiye's strategic position as a nation that bridges two continents, Europe and Asia. The country’s unique location has long been a source of both geopolitical influence and cultural exchange. Türkiye’s ability to navigate both Eastern and Western spheres has played a key role in shaping its modern identity.

As a member of NATO and a candidate for EU membership, Türkiye has historically balanced its relations between the West and its Muslim-majority roots in the East. The adoption of "Türkiye" signals a desire to assert national pride while maintaining this delicate geopolitical balancing act. The country’s leadership is focused on reinforcing sovereignty and self-determination, ensuring that Türkiye’s policies are defined by its own interests rather than external pressures.

Türkiye's Modernization and Global Influence

In recent years, Türkiye has emerged as a regional leader in areas such as defense, technology, and diplomacy. Under the leadership of President Erdoğan, the country has made significant strides in economic development, infrastructure projects, and energy security.

Türkiye’s role in the Middle East and Central Asia, as well as its strategic alliances with countries like Russia, China, and the United States, further enhance its global standing. The name change underscores the nation’s ambition to take on a more prominent role in global governance, international trade, and climate change initiatives.

The economic transformation of Türkiye also plays a central role in its growing global influence. As the country becomes more connected to global markets, it is also enhancing its cultural diplomacy. By asserting its identity and modernizing its image, Türkiye is positioning itself to be an influential soft power in global affairs.

A New Chapter in Türkiye's History

The transition from “Turkey” to “Türkiye” is not merely a change in name; it is a symbol of a nation that is redefining itself on the world stage. With a strong cultural heritage, growing global influence, and a commitment to modernization, Türkiye is poised to be a key player in the future of international politics, trade, and diplomacy.

The country’s decision to reclaim its identity reflects a broader shift in how the world views Türkiye and how the country sees itself in the 21st century. This transformation represents not only a departure from its past but a new era of sovereignty and self-definition.

Conclusion: Türkiye’s Future

The name change from "Turkey" to "Türkiye" is a landmark moment in the country’s history. It marks a renewed commitment to embracing national pride, strengthening its cultural identity, and asserting its place on the world stage. As the world continues to evolve, Türkiye’s green pivot, economic growth, and geopolitical strategies will position it as a leading nation in the global community.

In the coming years, we can expect to see more countries, organizations, and media outlets adopting the name "Türkiye," recognizing the significance of the shift and acknowledging the country’s evolving role in the world.