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Our Rector, Prof. Dr. Gülfettin Çelik, attended the Civil Society Consultative Council Meeting organized by the General Directorate of Relations with Civil Society of the Ministry of the Interior on June 11, 2026, in Gölbaşı, Ankara. Chaired by Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi and held under the theme “Civil Society in the Turkish Century,” the program brought together representatives of foundations, associations, and civil society organizations to discuss the responsibilities civil society will assume in line with the goals of the Turkish Century, its contributions to preserving civilizational values, and areas for collaboration.

Addressing the participants during the opening remarks of the program, Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi emphasized that the most important values that sustain a nation are the people it raises, the civilization it builds, the values it upholds, and the compassionate hand extended to the oppressed. Noting that Turkey’s achievements in the field of civil society have yielded significant results not only within the country’s borders but also at the international level, Çiftçi stated, “If Turkey’s name is spoken of with hope today across our heartland—stretching from the Balkans to the Caucasus, from Turkistan to Africa, and from Jerusalem to Gaza—it is due to the compassion of our nation and the selflessness of our civil society organizations.” He added. Drawing particular attention to the efforts of foundations, associations, and civil society organizations conducting relief operations in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Çiftçi thanked all civil society organizations working selflessly to deliver humanitarian aid to the oppressed Palestinian people, and emphasized that Turkey will continue to stand firmly by Gaza and all oppressed regions today, just as it has in the past.

Minister Çiftçi underscored that in today’s world, where conflicts and crises at the global and regional levels continue to escalate day by day, our foundations and associations are not only carrying out aid activities but also fostering a sense of national identity. He emphasized that a strong Turkey is only possible with a strong civil society structure.

The program continued with a presentation on the activities and ongoing work of the General Directorate of Relations with Civil Society. During the consultation session titled “Civil Society in the Turkish Century,” participants shared their views, suggestions, and contributions. Discussions focused on goals for the future of civil society, strengthening public-civil society cooperation, supporting volunteer activities, and promoting projects focused on social benefit. The meeting concluded with a general evaluation following the question-and-answer session.