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Turkey’s Role in the Formation of ICTSG and Preservation of Traditional Sports Overview of Turkey Turkey, straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia, has been a cultural crossroads for millennia. Known for its rich traditions, diverse communities, and strong national identity, Turkey is also home to a vibrant landscape of traditional and indigenous sports. Geographic Importance of Turkey Situated at the intersection of Europe and Asia, Turkey's geographic position has historically made it a hub for intercultural exchange. This significance has enabled Turkey to preserve and evolve a unique blend of traditional games that reflect both Eastern and Western influences. Traditional and Indigenous Sports of Turkey Turkey is home to numerous traditional sports, most notably:

Yağlı Güreş (Oil Wrestling): Recognized as the national sport of Turkey, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Wrestlers wear leather trousers and cover themselves in olive oil during intense matches. Cirit (Equestrian Javelin): A team horseback sport involving agility, precision, and bravery. It has origins among Turkic nomads and reflects a deep bond with horses. Sepetçioğlu Oyunu: A regional folk game tied to harvest festivals. Mangala: A strategic board game with centuries-old roots in Anatolia.

These traditional sports form the bedrock of Turkey’s cultural legacy and social structure, still celebrated during national events and festivals. Participation at the 4th Collective Consultation on Traditional Sports and Games Turkey was a prominent participant at the 4th Collective Consultation on TSG held on 13–14 August 2018 at Sheraton Grand Istanbul Atasehir. The country was represented by Dr.Mehmet Muharem Kasapoglu, Minister of Youth and Sports, Republic of Turkey, Mr. Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan, President WEC and Mr. Hakan Kazancı, Vice President of the World Ethnosport Confederation (WEC), Ms.Fatima Toru.Mayor Meram-Turkey, Prof.Dr.M.Ocal Oguz President- Turkish National Commission of UNESCO, Mr.M. Levent Akici, International Affairs Coordinator-WEC, Mr.Sami Sardar- Secretary General -WEC. The official document was signed by Mr. Sami Sardar & Ms. Fatima Toru in their capacity as the Officials of the World Ethnosport Confederation. Significance of the Meeting This event, hosted in Turkey and organized under the guidance of UNESCO and the Adhoc Advisory Committee on TSG, marked a monumental step toward forming an independent global platform — the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG). Turkey's leadership and active hosting demonstrated its unwavering support for the global preservation and institutionalization of traditional sports. Read full details of the event here. Weather and Climate of Turkey Turkey enjoys a diverse climate. The coastal areas along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas boast a Mediterranean climate — hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters — ideal for year-round sporting activities. Central Anatolia experiences a continental climate, adding variety to the seasonal rhythms of traditional games. These weather patterns contribute significantly to the sustainability of both indoor and outdoor traditional sports in Turkey. Turkey’s Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Turkey’s promotion of traditional sports aligns with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 4: Quality Education – By integrating traditional games in curricula. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Cultural heritage preservation. Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Community-building through inclusive sports.

These efforts reinforce Turkey's long-term commitment to peace, education, and cultural sustainability through its sports diplomacy. Historical Relevance and Future Contributions to ICTSG Turkey's strategic involvement in the establishment of ICTSG marks it as a cornerstone nation in this global effort. The leadership of Turkish delegates during foundational discussions not only brought international visibility but also shaped policy directions for ICTSG. With ongoing contributions from WEC and the Ministry of Sports, Turkey is positioned to mentor other nations in the institutionalization of traditional games. Call to Action The journey of preserving traditional Turkish sports like Oil Wrestling and Cirit is far from over. With the growing recognition from global institutions like UNESCO and ICTSG, now is the time to unite. Get Involved   Benefits of Joining   Support ICTSG

About ICTSG: The International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and revitalizing traditional sports and games as powerful tools for education, peace, and sustainable development.

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