Religious Affairs and Diaspora Relations Six million Turkish Citizens Living Abroad Mosque-Community Centers, Religious Education in Mother Tongue

Approximately six million Turkish citizens around the world are at the heart of diverse cultures and societies and are struggling to preserve their identities. This population is a reflection of how Türkiye’s cultural and religious fabric finds a place in the global arena. One of the most important social and cultural structures of Turkish citizens living in the diaspora is the mosque-community centers. The Presidency of Religious Affairs plays a pioneering role in the establishment, maintenance, and development of these centers. Diaspora relations are of immense importance in both religious and social contexts. These relations not only help Turks living abroad to preserve their cultural identity, but also contribute to their integration with the societies they live in. In this context, Diyanet conducts various projects and activities to provide religious education, strengthen social solidarity and create a wider social network. Such relations are also of critical importance for the preservation of Turkish identity and its transmission to future generations. Diaspora communities are not only a cultural presence in the countries where they reside, but also crucial factors contributing to the social and economic structure. In order to meet the religious education needs of these individuals, Diyanet offers an important support mechanism through mosque-community centers that provide education in the mother tongue. These centers are more than just places of worship, they also offer social services, cultural activities, and educational programs. Thus, Turkish citizens are able to keep their religious and cultural values alive while interacting with the communities they live in.