Alevis’ transnational practices and the consolidation of Alevi identity in the United Kingdom
Alevis’ transnational practices and the consolidation of Alevi identity in the United Kingdom

Author(s): Ayşegül Akdemir
Subject(s): Geography, Regional studies, Migration Studies, Ethnic Minorities Studies, Politics and Identity, Identity of Collectives
Published by: Transnational Press London
Keywords: UK; Alevi; identity; immigrants; Turkey; minorities;
Summary/Abstract: Alevi immigrants from Turkey who live in European countries have actively established associations for solidarity and for demanding democratic rights for Alevis back in Turkey. They do not only struggle for the official recognition of Alevi belief and places of worship in the host countries such as Germany, Netherlands, UK and France, where these demands can be accommodated through existing laws in the host countries, but they also strive for recognition in the host countries to set an example for desired improvements in Turkey itself and thereby transform Turkish society in such a way that Alevis’ rights are improved. Consequently Alevi demands focus on obtaining recognition “as a distinct community in a particular, nonstigmatising way” (Sökefeld, 2008, p. 17). For Alevis being recognised means both the acceptance of the distinct qualities of their belief system and also being free from stigma and discrimination due to these differences. This is described as ‘equal citizenship’ (eşit yurttaşlik) by the leaders of the Alevi movement.

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