KOM Higher Seminar - Turkish dramas as soft power in the Middle East and Central Asia

Turkish TV series (dizi) have emerged as powerful tools of soft power and nation branding, playing a pivotal role in shaping regional perceptions of Turkey. Scholars have increasingly recognized Turkey’s ability to communicate its cultural symbols and values through compelling television narratives, influencing audiences across the Middle East, South Caucasus, Central Asia, and beyond (Berg, 2023). This research examines the production and reception of Turkish TV series, with a particular focus on Iran and the South Caucasus, exploring how these audiovisual narratives contribute to Turkey’s image abroad and its sociopolitical relationships in the region.

The study investigates three key dimensions of Turkish TV dramas: (1) the decision-making processes of producers, including how socio-cultural and political themes are embedded into narratives to enhance Turkey’s national brand; (2) audience reception, examining how viewers interpret Turkish TV series and what these interpretations reveal about evolving political and cultural ties between Turkey and its neighbors.

Methodologically, the study employs production interviews with Turkish media producers (Bruun 2016), audience interviews, and focus groups (Athique 2017).