Understanding the Turkmens: Why Do Some Dislike Turks?

The concept of national identity and cross-border relationships can be complex, especially when it comes to historically connected yet distinct groups like the Turkmens and Turks. This article aims to explore why, in certain circumstances, some individuals from the Turkmen community might have a negative view towards Turks and to provide clarity on the broader context of Turkic peoples.

Introduction to Turkmen and Turkish Relations

Many people believe that Turkmen and Turkish people are essentially the same, sharing a common ancestry as Oghuz Turks. However, there is a particular subgroup of Turkmen individuals who have a dislike towards Turks, largely stemming from their experiences in working and living environments where they feel they are treated with disrespect or discrimination. This article seeks to address these sentiments and provide a broader understanding of the relationship between these two groups.

Perceived Discrimination and Nationalism

According to reports from Turkmen individuals who have worked or studied with Turks, there is a trend of Turkish people looking down on Turkmen colleagues. One key example is the experience of a Turkmen friend who studied at Bogazici University, a prestigious institution in Istanbul. Despite graduating with excellent scores, he was offered a lower salary than a Turkish student with fewer qualifications when seeking employment. This situation highlights a pervasive attitude that some Turks have towards Turkmen colleagues, which leads to feelings of mistreatment and disrespect.

Overcoming Misconceptions About Turkmen Identity

It is crucial to understand that the term "Turkmen" has multiple meanings and that the political identity of Turkmenistan is just one aspect of the broader Turkic heritage. The Turkmen people, also known as Oghuz Turks, have a rich history and cultural significance that transcends national borders. They are not limited to Turkmenistan; instead, they are spread across a vast geographic region, including Caucasia, Anatolia, Iraq, Syria, Iran, and Balkans, and North Africa, with an estimated population of 100–120 million worldwide.

The Historical and Cultural Context

The Turkmen people have a deep-rooted heritage that predates the modern nation-state of Turkmenistan. While Ottoman Turks conquered Anatolia and established a powerful and influential nation, Turkmen identity should not be equated with an Islamic or Semi-Islamic identity. The Turkic peoples have a diverse and complex cultural background that spans centuries and continents. It is important to recognize that not all Turkic peoples align with or celebrate an Islamic identity.

Challenging Nationalist Narratives

Another source of friction between Turkmen and Turks arises from certain nationalistic narratives within the Turkish community. Some Turks claim that Anatolian Turks are the “original Turks,” implying that Central Asians are “mixed with Mongolians.” This kind of rhetoric can foster a sense of inferiority or resentment among Turkmen people who do not share these views. It is important to acknowledge that the earliest Turks and the Turkic language originated in Northeast Asia and expanded westwards.

Supporting Unity and Mutual Respect

While it is essential to address and understand these feelings of resentment, it is equally crucial to promote mutual respect and unity among different Turkic peoples. Despite historical and geographical differences, the Turkic peoples share a common linguistic and cultural heritage that can serve as a unifying factor. It is through open dialogue, education, and shared understanding that tensions can be minimized and lasting peace can be achieved.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, the relationship between Turkmen and Turkish people is complex and multifaceted. While some Turkmen individuals may feel disrespected or discriminated against, it is crucial to recognize the broader context of Turkic heritage and the diverse backgrounds within the Turkic peoples. By fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding, we can work towards a more inclusive and harmonious future for all Turkic communities.