The Search for a Common Alphabet in the Turkic Republics and Obstacles

Abstract

The Turkish nation, with a current population exceeding 250 million, experienced significant political and geographical fragmentation in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in the East-West divide. Warfare, occupation, and cultural absorption all contributed to this fragmentation. Their alphabet changed several times over time, and their language encountered difficulties. As a result, their communication, and ties with one another degraded to the point that they appeared unable to effectively communicate, agree, or collaborate. The existing links between the Turkish World and Turkey were mostly severed during the Soviet era. However, with the fall of the Soviet Union and the subsequent declarations of independence by new Turkic Republics, these links were quickly restored. Today, Turkish states cooperate closely in various fields, engaging in significant joint projects, particularly through organizations like TIKA (Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency). One notable initiative is the quest for a "Common Alphabet," aiming to foster better communication and unity among Turkish-speaking communities