On the occasion of the 36th anniversary of the passing of Imam Khomeini, Iranian and Turkish scholars convened in Ankara to explore the challenges facing Muslim families today and to propose strategies for strengthening this vital social institution.
Collaborative Effort Between Iranian and Turkish Cultural Institutions
The scientific and cultural conference titled “Modern Life and the Muslim Family” was organized through the joint efforts of the Cultural Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Turkey and the Çukurambar Cultural Center in Ankara. The event brought together cultural officials, scholars in women’s and family studies, and social activists from both nations to examine the current state of the family unit in the modern world.
Emphasis on the Role of Women and Cultural Exchange
Hülya Uşan, Director of the Çukurambar Cultural Center, welcomed attendees and highlighted the central role of women and young girls in society. She stressed the importance of hosting such discussions in Turkey’s cultural venues and expressed enthusiasm for ongoing cultural collaborations between Iran and Turkey.
The Family as a Cornerstone of Society
Dr. Seyed Ghasem Nazemi, Cultural Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran, underscored the significance of the family as the foundational unit of society. He stated, “The family plays a decisive role in preserving identity, culture, and mental well-being. Re-examining Islamic values related to family can address many shared social challenges in Muslim countries.”
Addressing Moral Decline and Individualism
Dr. Sevilay Karaman, a member of the Women and Family Policy Council in the Turkish National Assembly, identified the erosion of moral values and the rise of extreme individualism as primary factors contributing to the family crisis in contemporary society. She remarked, “Technology and social media are not the sole culprits; the root issue lies in the departure from human values such as self-sacrifice and patience.”
Spirituality as a Path to Inner Peace
Islamic scholar Dr. Amir Mehrdad Khosravi referenced Imam Khomeini’s perspectives on women and family, noting, “Despite increased comfort, modern individuals experience less tranquility, stemming from a neglect of spirituality. The family serves as the starting point for a return to spiritual values.”
Turkey’s Initiative to Strengthen Families
Şule Türker, an advisor at the Turkish Ministry of Family and Social Services, announced that 2025 has been designated as the “Year of the Family” in Turkey. She detailed the government’s plans to implement a range of financial, legal, and social support measures aimed at reinforcing the family structure and emphasized the state’s active role in safeguarding this fundamental institution.
Cultural Exchange Through Art
At the conclusion of the conference, the Iranian Cultural Attaché presented gifts to the speakers. Participants also visited the “Iranian Family” art exhibition, showcasing works by Iranian artist Ali Miri. The exhibition received an enthusiastic response from attendees, highlighting the power of art in fostering cultural understanding.
This conference is part of the broader cultural initiatives by the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Cultural Attaché in Turkey, aimed at promoting shared cultural, religious, and social dialogues among Muslim nations.
From: tasnimnews