World Turks Qurultai 2017: Uniting Turkic Peoples
The World Turks Qurultai (a traditional assembly or council) is a landmark gathering designed to bring together the diverse Turkic peoples from across the globe. The inaugural event in 2017 served as a pivotal moment for scientists, artists, and leaders of public organizations to discuss the shared heritage and future cooperation of Turkic ethnic groups.
Event Overview and Relocation
Originally scheduled for July 2017 in Cholpon-Ata, located in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, the event faced an unexpected challenge. Due to reports of a bomb being planted in the host city, the meeting was urgently relocated to Almaty, Kazakhstan, to ensure the safety of all participants.
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Despite the change in venue, the assembly saw significant participation. More than 160 delegates representing 20 different Turkic peoples attended the gathering. This diverse group included representatives from the Turkish Cypriots as well as delegates from the republics of Yakutia and Tuva.
Key Facts
- Year: 2017
- Final Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan (moved from Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan)
- Attendance: 160+ delegates from 20 Turkic peoples
- Key Participants: Scientists, artists, and public organization leaders
- Primary Goal: To coordinate common actions for the revival and preservation of the Turk world
The Qurultai Declaration
The primary outcome of the talks was a comprehensive Declaration outlining a strategic roadmap for Turkic cooperation. The delegates agreed upon several key initiatives to strengthen cultural and political ties.
Institutional and Cultural Development
- Supreme Expert Council: Established as the permanent executive agency of the World Turks Qurultai.
- World Nomadic Culture Center: A proposal to create this center in Astana, Kazakhstan, with each Turkic people contributing thematic content to their respective ethnic sections.
- World Turk Games: An initiative to hold these games regularly in various countries worldwide.
Language and Youth Engagement
To bridge the gap between different Turkic dialects and generations, the assembly proposed the creation of a single Turk alphabet, an initiative to be pursued at the level of state leaders. Additionally, a Council of progressive youth was established to broadcast ideas of the Turk world's revival to the younger generation.
Preservation of Endangered Cultures
The declaration placed a strong emphasis on supporting small Turkic ethnic groups. Special attention was directed toward the Shorians and Tofalar, two disappearing Turkic peoples whose national cultures and values require urgent preservation.
Leadership and Future Outlook
To ensure these ambitious goals are met, the assembly concluded that leadership at the level of a state's First Person is essential. Consequently, participants proposed the creation of the status "Turk El Ata" to honor those providing exceptional service to the Turkic peoples. Furthermore, it was decided that the World Turks Qurultai should become an annual event.
| Category | Proposed Action/Initiative |
|---|---|
| Governance | Establishment of the Supreme Expert Council as a permanent agency |
| Culture | Creation of the World Nomadic Culture Center in Astana |
| Sports | Regular hosting of the World Turk Games globally |
| Language | Initiative for a single, unified Turk alphabet |
| Preservation | Targeted support for Shorians and Tofalar peoples |
| Youth | Formation of a Council of progressive youth |
| Honorifics | Introduction of the "Turk El Ata" status |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the 2017 World Turks Qurultai moved to Kazakhstan?
The event was moved from Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, to Almaty, Kazakhstan, following reports of a bomb being planted in the original host city.
Which specific endangered Turkic groups were highlighted?
The declaration specifically mentioned the Shorians and Tofalar as disappearing Turkic peoples who require special attention to preserve their national culture and values.
What is the purpose of the proposed single Turk alphabet?
The initiative aims to create a unified alphabet to facilitate better communication and unity among the various Turkic-speaking peoples, proposed at the level of state leaders.
What is the "Turk El Ata" status?
It is a proposed honorary status intended for individuals who provide significant service to the Turkic peoples, acting as a form of leadership recognition.
How often is the World Turks Qurultai intended to be held?
The delegates agreed to make the World Turks Qurultai an annual event to ensure the effective implementation of their common goals.