Greek-Turkish Young Leaders Symposium (GTYLS) on Security
20-23 June
Istanbul, Turkey

APPLICATION INFORMATION

The Center for International and European Studies (CIES) at Kadir Has University plans to organize the 9^th Greek-Turkish Young Leaders Symposium (GTYLS) on Security in partnership with the Institute of International Relations at the Panteion University of Athens, Global Academy, the Institute of Eastern Mediterranean Studies at Emmanuel College, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, Turkey Office, and NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division on 20-23 June 2022 in Istanbul. 

The 9th GTYLS aims to enhance knowledge of the participants on security issues focusing on the thematic cluster of “NATO Unites”. The concept includes how NATO can bring Greeks and Turks together to confront challenges to the rules-based international order in defense of the common values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. This is particularly necessary when the relations between the two allies are increasingly strained while the common challenges multiply. The focus will be highlighting the NATO 2030 agenda, its key priorities, and the expected outcomes of the June 2022 NATO Madrid Summit, especially the New Strategic Concept. The Symposium thus provides a forum for dialogue, collaboration and networking for young Greeks and Turks interested and involved in enhancing their respective country’s role in the Alliance, the cooperation between the two countries, and the transatlantic bond. 2022 is an important year for both countries as it marks the 70th anniversary of their membership in NATO in 1952. The Alliance’s significance is ever relevant today for both countries given the consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The Greek-Turkish Young Leaders Symposium (GTYLS) on Security will include the participation of some 15 Greek and 15 Turkish International Relations and related specialists (undergraduate and MA students, PhD candidates, young PhD scholars, and professionals), aged between 20 and around 40 years old, and Greek and Turkish experts that will act as speakers and trainers. Sessions, led by primarily by Greek and Turkish experts will include an overview of “The State of Greek-Turkish Relations within the NATO Context” while more specialized sessions will be held on The June 2022 Summit and the new Strategic Concept; Confronting Disinformation and Enhancing Societal Resilience; Promoting the Values of Freedom, Democracy, and the Rule of Law; The Security Impact of Climate Change (migration, food and water insecurity, resource scarcity); Understanding the Wider Security Context (Russia, China, Middle East); Defending Against Terrorism and Threats in the Hybrid and Cyber Realms.

These sessions will be supported by Focus Group workshops led by an experienced facilitator where participants will work in mixed groups to discuss and analyze the thematic sessions, with the objective of presenting their policy proposals from the perspective of enhancing the input and interest of young leaders from both countries in supporting and promoting the values of the Atlantic Alliance in their countries. These outputs will be published as an online report which will incorporate the work and ideas emanating from the Symposium, thereby helping shape the agenda of future editions of the Symposium.

Participants are expected to meet the criteria listed below:

• Specialists in International Relations and other relevant disciplines (undergraduate and MA students, PhD candidates, young PhD scholars, and professionals)
• 20-40 years of age or thereabouts.
• An interest in the areas of international relations, foreign policy, security, political economy, civil society engagement, NATO, and Greek-Turkish relations.
• Willing to establish networks and dialogue between Greece and Turkey.
• Fluent spoken and written English.

Please note: The organizers will cover round trip travel from Athens to Istanbul (for the Greek participants); accommodation in Istanbul (in shared double occupancy rooms) for the duration of the Symposium (3 nights including breakfast for all non-Istanbul based participants); lunch for 3 days; and two dinners. Please note that the Symposium is open to participants from all parts of Turkey and Greece, and they are especially encouraged to apply.

The CIES may provide on a need basis a small travel stipend for those attending the Symposium from elsewhere in Turkey.

Participants to previous editions of the Symposium are welcome to apply.

Participants are expected to make their own arrangements for their health insurance coverage, and Covid19 related entry requirements for the entire duration of their trip/stay.

Please note that the language of the Symposium is English.

You may see the generic program here. 

Application and registration process:

The deadline for applications is Monday, 16 May 2022. Participation is limited to about 30 people (15 Greeks, 15 Turks). Acceptance is at the discretion of the organizers.

To apply please complete this application form and attach in Word format a detailed CV in English.

APPLICATION FORM

1. PERSONAL DETAILS

2. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Please state why you wish to attend the Symposium (500 words maximum):

3. ALUMNI INITIATIVES

Participants are encouraged to initiate joint projects as a way to further cooperation after the Symposium. Please explain your ideas on how to promote alumni initiatives. (250 words maximum):

4. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please specify how you found out about the International Neighbourhood Symposium (e.g. name of website, CIES mailing, Alumni, notice board at university, etc.):

Please provide below the contact details of two referees:

Please do not include or send photos. Do not forget to attach your CV. The deadline for applications is Monday, 16 May 2022. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Should you have any queries, do not hesitate to contact us by email at ciesactivities@khas.edu.tr. Thank you for your interest in the Greek-Turkish Young Leaders Symposium on Security.