Alevi political and religious rights in Turkey

Political and religious leaders in Turkey have engaged in discussions regarding Alevi rights, cultural preservation, and democratic reform.

In late September, DEM Party co-chairs met with Alevi institution representatives in Ankara. During this meeting, Tuncer Bakırhan stated that the peace process concerns all 86 million citizens of Turkey and asserted, “We are candidates to govern this country, we are aspirants to govern this country.” Concurrently, the Democratic Alevi Associations opened a new branch in Van to advocate for equal citizenship.

By early October, the focus shifted toward institutional roadmaps. Approximately 200 Alevi-Bektaşi leaders convened in Ankara under the Alevi-Bektaşi Culture and Cemevi Presidency to discuss the future of cemevis and dergahs. Officials indicated that feedback from these consultations would be reported to the President and the Ministry to address institutional needs. Additionally, a delegation from the 12 İmamlar Alevi-Bektaşi Öğreti Derneği met with BBP Chairman Mustafa Destici to express support for strengthening coexistence between Alevi and Sunni citizens.