Diplomacy, Dialogue, and Diversity: A Report on the NEU Model United Nations, Near East Institute Reports No. 1/2025
Abstract:
This report outlines the aims, implementation, and impact of the inaugural Model United Nations (MUN) event organised by the Near East Institute at Near East University—the first wide-reaching MUN conference held in North Cyprus. It highlights the event’s focus on diversity, gender balance, and intercultural dialogue, with over 40 participants from a range of academic backgrounds and institutions. The report details how the initiative equipped students with practical skills in diplomacy, negotiation, public speaking, and policy analysis, and reflects on how the MUN has positioned the Near East Institute as a leader in promoting youth engagement and experiential learning in the region.
The Emergence and Ascendancy of Yemen's Houthis, Near East Institute Reports, No. 1/2024
Abstract:
This report examines the ideological orientation and political role of the Houthi movement, tracing its evolution from a small local group in Sa’dah in the early 1990s to a dominant force that now controls much of Yemen’s population and approximately one-third of its territory. It explores the internal and external factors behind the Houthis’ rise, including the nature of governance in Yemen and persistent challenges to state-building. The report also analyses the group’s ideological trajectory and shifting political strategy, placing their development within the wider context of the Saudi-Iranian rivalry. Finally, it assesses the Houthis’ recent actions in relation to the Gaza war and their growing regional assertiveness, offering insights into how the conflict in Yemen is becoming increasingly enmeshed in broader geopolitical dynamics.
Cyber Attacks in the Context of International Law and the Case of the TRNC, Near East Institute Reports No. 1/2021
Abstract:
With the advancement of technology, our lives have become easier; however, this has also brought certain challenges. In particular, after the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, our increasing dependence on technology has led to legal debates on various issues. In this context, the scope of international law and the existing rules have required some updates. Notably, significant changes have taken place in the law of armed conflict. Today, states have added cyber defense commands alongside their land, naval, and air forces, and militaries have begun developing scenarios related to cyber attacks and cyber warfare. This study examines the status and legal rights of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), an unrecognized state in the international system, in the event of a possible cyber warfare scenario under international law.
Turkey-Central Asia Relations: A Strategic Overview, Yakın Doğu Enstitüsü Raporları No. 1/ 2020
Abstract:
This report provides a general overview of bilateral and regional relations between Turkey and Central Asian countries. Recent political changes in Central Asian states, along with the integration processes initiated by global powers such as Russia and China, have further increased the region's significance for Turkey, which attributes special historical and cultural importance to Central Asia. The report aims to contribute to foreign policy discussions on Central Asia, a region considered to offer economic, cultural, and political opportunities for Turkey.
The Economic Security of the TRNC, Near East Institute Reports No. 3/2019
Abstract:
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) finds itself caught in a web of structural challenges as it seeks to transition to a sustainable economy due to its unique characteristics. In addition to existing structural problems, recent fluctuations in the Turkish economy, influenced by the international conjuncture, are likely to have a negative impact on the TRNC economy. This report serves as a step toward discussing proposed solutions to mitigate the effects of crises within the framework of economic security.
Shifting Balances in the Eastern Mediterranean in the Context of Energy, Near East Institute Reports No. 2/2019
Abstract:
While the Eastern Mediterranean region maintains its strategic importance, newly discovered energy resources have attracted the attention of global actors. Beyond the existing regional disputes, the emergence of an energy crisis has led to a restructuring of power balances. The main focus of this study is the start of drilling activities by the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean and Turkey’s subsequent response. Turkey’s newly developed policies regarding the Eastern Mediterranean are crucial in determining the course of future developments. From the perspective of international powers and regional countries, the "Eastern Mediterranean Crisis" has the potential to escalate beyond a regional issue and contribute to global challenges.
Four Democratization Myths: A Case Study of the United Nations, Near East Institute Reports No. 1/2019
Abstract:
This report evaluates the democratization efforts of the United Nations by highlighting five myths of this process. Drawing on the myths originally identified by Susan Marks and expanded by Tutumlu, this report shows that democratization is a highly political process. Specifically, the author shows that United Nations suffers from the Myth of Presumptive Universality which presumes that democracy, despite its different interpretations, is an essential good wanted by everyone in the world. It also shows that the UN discourse suffers from the Myth of Deep Roots, which assumes that democracy has had a relative long history. However, the United Nations adopted democratization policies relatively late, mostly in the form of the electoral assistance in the 1990s. UN assumes that given a chance, people will choose democracy over other forms of governance, so UN portrays its role as apolitical aimed only to strengthen grass roots efforts. However, such Myth of No Politics hides the fact that democratization efforts are highly political, starting from the banal choice of partners and organizations, which the UN is prepared to recognize. UN also buys into the Myth of the Dangerous Dark assuming that only dictators are perpetuating crimes under the veil of darkness without criticizing the system, which brought them in the first place. The report relies on the personal experience of working at the United Nations as well as the analysis of various documents produced by the international organization on this matter.
Manageable Fragmentation in Syria: Challenges and Opportunities for Israeli Security, Near East Institute Reports No. 9
Abstract:
This report evaluates the developments in Syria following the Arab Spring uprisings from an Israeli perspective. It examines potential opportunities and threats within the framework of Israel’s security interests, priorities, and concerns in the context of the Syrian crisis. In analyzing these opportunities and threats, the report considers the historical background of Israel-Syria relations, the impact of Syria’s internal dynamics—reshaped by the civil war—on Israel’s security policies, and Israel’s interactions with regional (Iran) and global (Russia and China) powers in the context of the crisis. Additionally, it assesses Israel’s role in the Syrian crisis and the future scenarios it envisions in line with its security priorities. Rather than focusing on Israel’s strategic partnership with the United States, the report examines Israel’s security policies toward Syria in relation to its engagements with regional and global actors whose interests either conflict with or partially align with its own. By addressing Israel’s priorities and concerns at local, regional, and international levels, this study aims to provide insights into Israel’s future strategies and approaches in pursuing its key objectives regarding Syria.
European Discourses of Political Parties in Northern Cyprus, Near East Institute Reports No. 8
Abstract:
This report examines the “Europeanization” process of Northern Cyprus through the lens of mainstream Turkish Cypriot political parties’ discourses on “Europe” and the “European Union.” It analyzes the different visions of Europe that political parties construct through their narratives on Cyprus’s EU membership. To achieve this, the report employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to examine press statements, election manifestos, selected government programs, and interviews with politicians on Europe and the EU. The findings suggest that discussions on Europe and the EU in Northern Cyprus are inherently linked to broader debates on collective identity and draw from diverse ideological frameworks. However, despite these differences, the report highlights a growing convergence between right-wing and left-wing discourses in recent years, with an increasing emphasis on an "administrative-based Europe" narrative.
The Case of Northern Cyprus in the Context of (Non-)Integration and (Non-)Democratization Processes in the Euro-Mediterranean Region, Umut Koldaş and Nur Köprülü, Near East Institute Reports No. 7
Abstract:
This report systematically analyzes the democratization and political liberalization processes taking place in the Euro-Mediterranean region, examining where the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) stands within these processes and its trajectory of development. Focusing on key components of political liberalization and democratization—such as political parties (political elites and elected officials), civil society organizations, and the relationship between democratic culture and public opinion—the report evaluates the democratic and political liberalization processes of all countries within the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. Based on these components, a modeling study is conducted to assess the positioning of the TRNC. Within this framework, the report analyzes how democratization and political liberalization practices are shaped not only by regional but also by national and local dynamics in the Euro-Mediterranean region. It further examines how the TRNC is positioned within the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership.
Barrier-Free Activities Report, Fahriye Altınay and Zehra Altınay, Near East Institute Reports No. 6
Abstract:
Prepared in collaboration between the Near East Institute and the NEU Social Research and Development Center, the Barrier-Free Activities Report outlines proposed activities to be carried out in coordination with the TRNC Barrier-Free Platform to transform the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) into an inclusive and accessible country.The report aims to serve as a resource guide for both public and private sector institutions, offering recommendations for initiatives that promote accessibility and inclusivity across all sectors.
Is Brexit the End of the EU?, Erhan Ayaz, Near East Institute Reports No. 5
Abstract:
This report discusses the outcome of the Brexit referendum, which, while surprising in terms of polls, is not deemed unexpected in light of the increasing populism around the world. The report highlights that the European skepticism depicted within British nationalism is not a new phenomenon, despite its more frequent mention during the Brexit debates. The report delves into the potential effects of the Brexit referendum decision in detail and shares the forecast that it could result in an outcome capable of shifting the balance within the European Union.
Sectarian Divisions in Syria, the Peace Process, and the Role of the European Union, Umut Koldaş and Erhan Ayaz, Near East Institute Reports No. 4
Abstract:
This report emphasizes the importance of including different groups and civil society actors in the peace-building process in Syria. It examines the impact of the lack of effective leadership responsible for fostering unity and peace within the country, particularly in the context of the Syrian opposition. One of the reasons why the Geneva I and Geneva II peace talks failed to reach an outcome is attributed to the insufficient participation of civil society, according to the report. It provides a detailed analysis of Syria's social structure, arguing that peace strategies must take into account the specific interests, demands, and concerns of all segments of society. The report shares opportunities for integrating all parts of Syrian society into peace-building processes. Moreover, the report discusses how the European Union (EU) and its member states should play a role in addressing the refugee crisis and contributing to the Syrian peace process, offering specific recommendations. It concludes that Turkey must be an essential stakeholder in the EU’s Syria policies and also examines, in detail, the crucial steps needed to help Syrian society cope with post-conflict trauma.
Barrier-Free Activities Report, Fahriye Altınay and Zehra Altınay, Near East Institute Reports No. 6
Abstract:
Prepared in collaboration between the Near East Institute and the NEU Social Research and Development Center, the Barrier-Free Activities Report outlines proposed activities to be carried out in coordination with the TRNC Barrier-Free Platform to transform the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) into an inclusive and accessible country. The report aims to serve as a resource guide for both public and private sector institutions, offering recommendations for initiatives that promote accessibility and inclusivity across all sectors.
Jordan at a Turning Point: The Arab Spring, the Syrian Crisis, and the Refugee Movements’ Impact on Jordan, Associate Prof. Dr. Nur Köprülü, Near East Institute Reports No. 2
Abstract:
This report, which examines Jordan's recent political history and identity politics in the context of Palestine, explores Jordan's position regarding the ongoing events in the Middle East and the impacts of the Syrian crisis. It emphasizes that the most significant challenge of the Syrian crisis is the Syrian refugees and the difficult integration process they have created. The report highlights how the refugee crisis has exacerbated the existing economic problems in Jordan and draws attention to the growing influence of radical Salafi Islamists based in Jordan. The report also notes that the political reform demands, which began during the Arab Spring and gained broad societal support, continue to grow. Additionally, it points out that the war in Syria has made internal issues and instability in Jordan more pronounced. The report further evaluates Jordan’s foreign policy regarding Syria, the Jordan-Turkey bilateral relations in the context of the Syrian crisis, and the situation of Syrian refugees in Jordan in detail.
Syria: Solution or Chaos?, Ercan Çitlioğlu, Near East Institute Reports No. 1
Abstract:
This report emphasizes that Syria has become a battleground for regional and global actors seeking to demonstrate power and achieve gains, referencing various factors that have contributed to conflicts in the Middle East. In addition to the age-old disputes and territorial ambitions between Sunni and Shia sects, the report highlights how the conflict between Salafism and the Muslim Brotherhood ideology has further complicated the situation in Syria by introducing another layer to the regional issues. The report also covers the struggle of groups demanding freedom and democracy in Syria against the regime, and how regional and global dynamics have merged with internal developments. It delves into the regional goals and interests of states and non-state actors concerning Syria, with a focus on their future agendas. Furthermore, the report focuses on the mistakes that led to the expansion of the Syrian crisis into a global one and presents a nuanced analysis of Syria’s political and historical context. Rather than advocating for direct military intervention, it proposes an approach of training moderate opposition groups and equipping them with modern weaponry, suggesting that by strengthening their positions, the opposition could pressure Assad into negotiations.