IN SEARCH OF RECOGNITION: ALEVI IDENTITY POLITICS IN THE CASE OF THE (TÜRKIYE) UNITY PARTY

Identity politics can be defined as a phenomenon that focuses on the existence of marginalised individuals or groups in the political arena within social structures. Accordingly, this phenomenon puts an emphasis on making the identity, culture and values of certain individuals or groups visible and establishing social, political and economic equality between them and other dominant individuals or groups in society. While the Alevi community can be characterised as a minority religious group in Türkiye, it can be stressed that their efforts to exist in the political arena are reflected in the (Türkiye) Unity Party—(T)BP. The main objective of the present research is to examine how Alevis' desire for recognition in the society has been established in the context of (T)BP. The data set of the research, which was designed as a single-site case study, was analysed through thematic analysis method. The findings revealed six themes, including human rights and equality, secularism and freedom of belief, social justice and development, social reforms, education and cultural rights, and women rights, and the themes provided fertile ground for increasing the visibility of Alevi identity politics and defending their rights. Furthermore, it was concluded that Alevi identity is not only a religious issue but also has a broader perspective anchored in socio-economic and political justice demands. Consequently, it was demonstrated that the (T)BP has played an important role in the construction of Alevi identity politics and has contributed significantly to the consolidation of the democratic and secular system in Türkiye.