“Preserving Turkish Cypriot Family Values: Dismissing Foreign Lifestyles” – BRTK
Symposium on Turkish Family Structure in Northern Cyprus
The "Turkish Family Symposium in Cyprus" has commenced at the Northern Cyprus Campus of Ankara Social Sciences University (ASBU). The event aims to explore the social, cultural, and legal changes faced by the Turkish Cypriot family while evaluating the threats and opportunities that the family institution encounters.
Keynote Addresses
President Ersin Tatar emphasized the significance of a robust family structure in maintaining a strong identity for Turkish Cypriots. He highlighted that the essence of this structure is paramount and should not be overshadowed by lifestyles influenced by the EU or other countries.
Tatar addressed the rising divorce rates and urged couples to exercise greater tolerance towards one another. He encouraged nurturing children with a deep-seated love for their homeland, asserting that the family has always been central to the Turkish Cypriot identity since the establishment of Turkish sovereignty in Cyprus in 1581.
Insights from Officials
Turkish Ambassador to Nicosia, Ali Murat Başçeri, echoed Tatar’s sentiments, stating that families serve as the foundation for national values that are passed down through generations. He stressed that a healthy society is built upon a robust family structure, warning of the dangers posed by digital dependence and the fast-paced consumer culture.
Rector of ASBU, Dr. Enver Arpa, noted the symposium’s intent to collaboratively study the Turkish Cypriot family over two days, culminating in a public declaration and a published document. Describing the family as the "primary school" of individuals, he emphasized the importance of a healthy family in fostering a strong community.
The Event’s Structure
Following the opening remarks, President Tatar honored both Ambassador Başçeri and Rector Arpa with plaques in recognition of their contributions to the event. The symposium consists of sessions that will delve into the interactions between family structures and digital culture, family health, gender roles, and the effects of migration.
Discussions will include sociological analyses of traditional and emerging family forms, underscoring the multifaceted nature of family dynamics in contemporary society.
This symposium serves as a critical platform for academic discourse regarding the Turkish Cypriot family, aiming to reinforce its resilience against modern challenges and uphold its cultural integrity. The event will continue today and tomorrow, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of family life in Northern Cyprus.
