Reconciling Cultural and Political Identities in a Globalized World ― Perspectives on Australia-turkey Relations

Though geographically apart, Turkey and Australia are much closer than many would think. In forging their cultural and political identities, both countries have sought to reconcile their history with their geography. On the occasion of the Gallipoli centenary, the different and shared paths of these two countries are ready for examination. This study features their important interactions, through both conflict and migration, from the Gallipoli landing to the present day. It addresses key foreign policy concerns – such as the relationship with the United States – and domestic politics. Turkey is still wrestling with the legacy of its Ottoman past, including the status of ethnic and religious minorities, as well as tensions between secular modernity and Islamic religiosity. Australia too is grappling with its own ethnic and religious diversity, and particular its Muslim communities, of which the Turks are one of the oldest. This collection provides a relevant, comparative and comprehensive study of two countries seeking to reconcile their history with their geography.

Michalis S. Michael is a Senior Research Fellow and Director of the Centre for Dialogue at La Trobe University, Australia. His research interests encompass intergroup and international conflict and their transformation away from notions of state-bound security. His publications include Civilizational Dialogue and World Order (2009) and Resolving the Cyprus Conflict (2009).