İstanbul & Middle East The Middle East’s Global Significance STRATEGICALLY POSITIONED at the cross- roads of continents, the Middle East and Turkey hold immense global sig- nificance, both historically and in the modern era. Geographically, this region serves as a vital bridge connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe, playing a central role in international trade and energy transportation. Home to around 450 million people, its geological wealth is staggering, particularly when it comes to energy resources, with 45% of the world’s proven oil reserves located in the Middle East.
Why İstanbul?
“IF THE world was only one country, İstan- bul would be its capital,” declared Napo- leon. At the crossroads of Asia and Europe, İstanbul, a city rich in cultural history and heritage, beckons Baret students to explore the unique confluence of East and West. Here, history echoes through the ages, as empires such as the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman once fervently vied for İs- tanbul’s prestigious mantle as their capital. Today, the city embraces its legacy, with over 2,000 mosques, 400 opulent ham- mams (bathhouses), and an abundance of regal palaces and formidable fortresses. The iconic Hagia Sophia, originally a ca- thedral built in 537 AD, has a dome that has inspired architects for centuries. The city boasts four UNESCO World Heritage Sites ensuring that every corner of the city holds a piece of history. İstanbul, a European capital of culture, showcases the struggle of modernization and preservation. In the midst of swift po- litical and economic shifts, the city offers students a front-row seat to witness dy- namic socio-political and cultural move- ments in action, bringing history to life. More than a historic gem, İstanbul thrives as Europe’s largest metropolis. It’s home to 16 million people and 67,000 companies spanning diverse industries, from manufacturing to banking, finance, retail, and tourism. In this vibrant urban landscape, students discover a flourishing creative sector adorned with world class art galleries, resounding music venues, illustrious film production studios, and cutting-edge fashion design studios. The city’s vibrant economy, intertwined with its profound historical significance, cre- ates an exceptional learning environment for students to foster their academic and personal growth.
Historically, the Middle East holds a unique place as the spiritual heartland of major world religions. Currently, the Middle East and Turkey play an out- sized global role in politics, particularly geo-politics. Today the Middle East’s strategic location as a tricontinental hub, its vast petroleum reserves, its impor- tance to Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike, and its many political disputes give it a global relevance out of proportion to its size. The region is a high-priority stra- tegic focus for world powers. By immers- ing themselves in the Middle East, stu- dents learn to better understand pressing current events that affect the global po- litical landscape. The region is also a bustling hub of economic activity, characterized by rap- id urbanization and diversification. Cit- ies like Dubai and Doha showcase this dynamism with ambitious infrastruc- ture projects and by hosting globally re- nowned events like Expo 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, backed by a significant investment of $500 billion, exemplify the region’s commitment to innovation. With centuries of historical legacies and active roles in shaping the future, the Middle East and Turkey offer dy- namic opportunities for exploration and engagement, making them compelling destinations for inquisitive students.
“There is in the Middle East an awakening that defies slumber. This awakening will conquer because the sun is its leader and the dawn is its army.” KAHLIL GIBRAN
İstiklal Avenue, İstanbul
102 BARET SCHOLARS
103 REGIONS & FELLOWSHIPS
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