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Turkey – Founding Member of ICTSG Overview Turkey participated in the foundational ICTSG gathering held in Istanbul on 13–14 August 2018 during the AAC and 4th Collective Consultation Meeting. Represented by Fatima Toro, with delegates Matin Sahin, Sami Sardar, and Prof. Dr. M Ocal Oguz, Turkey officially signed the charter, affirming its commitment to traditional sports preservation. Delegation and Signatory The Turkish delegation comprised:

Fatima Toro – Official signatory for Turkey Matin Sahin Sami Sardar Prof. Dr. M Ocal Oguz

Fatima Toro signed the ICTSG foundation document, reinforcing Turkey’s leadership in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage across generations. Geographic & Cultural Significance Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey’s unique geography—mountains, steppes, coastlines—has shaped rich traditional games. Turkey’s blend of cultures and civilizations contributes to its strong tradition of heritage sports, integral to its national identity and cultural diplomacy. Traditional and Indigenous Sports of Turkey

Oil Wrestling (Yağlı Güreş): Known as the national sport of Turkey since Ottoman times, this ritualistic contest uses olive oil and draws crowds to historic festivals. Traditional Archery (Okçuluk): Dating to the Seljuks and Ottomans, Turkish archery is both competitive and spiritual. Cirit (Equestrian Javelin Throw): A cavalry sport practiced during Ottoman era, showcasing horsemanship and team strategy.

Turkey's Role in ICTSG Formation By signing during the Istanbul gathering, Turkey joined the ranks of founding and signatory members of ICTSG. Its involvement brings depth to global efforts in cultural preservation and sporting diplomacy. Discover more in the official ICTSG formation history article. Weather and Climate Conditions Turkey’s climate varies widely: Mediterranean coasts, continental interiors, and alpine zones. Seasonal weather influences traditional sports: spring festivals host oil wrestling, autumn events include cirit competitions, and winter sports flourish in eastern highlands. Recognizing these patterns ensures cultural sports remain active and relevant. UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Alignment Turkey’s participation aligns with key UN SDGs:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well‑Being: Promoting wellness and community through traditional games. SDG 4 – Quality Education: Integrating heritage sports into educational programs. SDG 11 – Sustainable Communities: Preserving cultural identity through traditional sports. SDG 17 – Partnerships: Strengthening multilateral collaboration for shared heritage.

Historical Legacy & Vision for Future From ancient Anatolian rituals to Ottoman military games, Turkey offers a rich tapestry of traditional sports. Its leadership within ICTSG ensures ongoing efforts to document, teach, and host these cultural practices. Collaborative initiatives with cultural ministries and NGOs support youth engagement and intergenerational transmission. Call to Action Support Turkey’s living heritage of traditional sports. By joining ICTSG initiatives, you help ensure these cultural treasures continue to inspire and unite communities. 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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