The World Ethnospor Union as a Rising Actor in Turkish and Global Public Diplomacy

Authors : Sinan Yaman

Pages : 189-206

Doi:10.54722/iletisimvediplomasi.1784067

View : 178 | Download : 364

Publication Date : 2025-12-25

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Within the changing geopolitics of the world and the region, cultural diplomacy activities and the actors carrying out these activities have become increasingly important in recent years. One such actor, the World Ethnosport Union, is a non-governmental organisation established in line with Türkiye’s approach to cultural diplomacy. This union embraces the mission of reviving, preserving, and passing on to future generations ethnosports, which are sports activities containing numerous elements specific to local identities where traditional cultures are preserved. This study aims to evaluate the structure and mission of the World Ethnosport Union and assess all its activities related to traditional sports and games in terms of cultural diplomacy. Primary data sources, such as the World Ethnosport Union’s website, records, scientific publications, and news related to the events and achievements organized by the organisation within the country and worldwide, were analysed for the events and organisations carried out by the World Ethnosport Union, established in 2015, from its establishment until June 18, 2025. Content analysis was used in the data analysis process. The findings obtained were interpreted descriptively within the framework of the four main headings identified. The contributions of the World Ethnosport Union to Turkish public diplomacy and the changes in the cultural policies of the Republic of Türkiye as a result of these contributions were examined.
Keywords : Etnospor, kamu diplomasisi, kültürel diplomasi, Türkiye, Dünya Etnospor Birliği

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