Sustainability excellence from the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications

Established in 2018, the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications was created with the vision of fostering in-depth and multifaceted relationships with national and international public, decision-makers, and the media. With such a strong footing, the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications continues to improve the national and international success of sustainability efforts through its dedicated work. Here we learn more from the Directorate’s governing body as we take a closer look at the establishment’s mission, values, and commitment to the award-winning sustainability development project: The Zero Waste Project.

“The primary role of the Directorate of Communications in the field of sustainability is to raise awareness, manage informational activities, and focus on educating the public. Strategic communication initiatives are implemented both nationally and internationally to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals.”

Since 2018, the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications has been keeping communication channels strong between all state institutions. Utilising a shared language approach, to serve as the foundation for its governance and operational processes, its aim is to ensure Türkiye’s effective representation across all domains using diverse communication tools and methods, thereby strengthening the Türkiye Brand in this context.

“The Directorate itself aims to convey Türkiye’s policies, practices, and perspectives to the public and stakeholders in a planned, continuous, and effective manner, thereby raising awareness. The Directorate closely follows and supports development of the media and intellectual landscape, providing relevant authorities and the public with timely and accurate information.”

With the core values of transparency, truth, and continuity – which also act as the Directorate’s main principles – strengthening every activity, Türkiye’s overall impact on its people, and the rest of the world, has continued to improve year upon year.

The Directorate stands strong in its mission to spread the word of its nation, foster relationships with the rest of the world, its press and journalists, and contribute to the media so that its environmental impact can be seen, and joined by many others.

The Zero Waste Project was born in 2017 under the patronage of H.E. Mrs. Emine Erdogan to tackle waste and improve resources, as well as improving the wellbeing of Türkiye and the world. As the recycling rate of Türkiye in 2017 was 13%, it was a monumental achievement to raise this to 30% in 2022. With goals to increase the recycle and reuse rate to 60% by 2035, Türkiye has a drive to further its position in the world as one of the most environmentally conscious locations, especially in order to improve the lives of its people and our planet.

With Mrs. Erdogan’s approach to this project, aligned with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Türkiye has also signed the The Declaration of Goodwill for “Global Commitment to Zero Waste for the World, Our Common Home” which is aimed at increasing awareness of Türkiye’s Zero Waste practices. It’s also very important for others to remember that “the commitment, which has received support from many countries, is still open for signatures.”

As the Türkiye Communication Model is “built on a holistic strategy that aims to establish a positive and lasting communication bridge between society and the state,” the Directorate thrives on its ability to manage communications to its people, and people around the globe. Prioritising transparency, truth, and continuity, the Directorate further establishes both the Türkiye Brand and its continual progress.

These principles were developed under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to ensure that the country follows guidelines that are, and have been, the very backbone of Türkiye. Its holistic strategy, of a sturdy yet compassionate mindset to improve the country and its inhabitants, the Türkiye Communication Model is focused on mitigating any confusion, countering acts of disinformation and boosting the support from the government. Unshrouded and honest, Türkiye’s Presidency and the Türkiye Communication Model aids everyone across the country, directly and indirectly.

Building long lasting relationships between the Presidency and the people, the Directorate is the bridge between these aspects of Türkiye – meaning the state and nation can work together to achieve more positive outcomes, especially with regard to the Zero Waste Project.

Furthermore, the Directorate points out that it  “collaborates with fact-checking mechanisms to minimize the impact of disinformation and actively promotes media literacy. Through its adherence to the principles of transparency, cooperation, and truth, the Directorate strengthens societal resilience and positions Türkiye as a leader in effective communication strategies at both the national and international levels.”

With a strong presence nationally and internationally, the Directorate puts Türkiye in a fine position amongst the world’s contribution to achieving a higher, and much better level of environmental awareness. Constructing mutually beneficial relationships between national and international stakeholders, the Directorate ensures a well-flowing discourse in each partnership. Additionally, within a framework “rooted in ethical values,” the Türkiye communication model, demonstrated by the Directorate, combats disinformation by informing the public and always upholding the truth.

Unwavering in its commitment to communicating efficiently, honestly, and with respect, the Directorate has mastered the technical intricacies of communication policies while concentrating on public interest. With goals to facilitate the creation of the best conditions for its citizens, while guaranteeing a stable, healthy, and prosperous future for them, the Directorate has always exceled in its tasks. This public institution believes that its “foremost obligation is to serve people to the best of the Directorate’s abilities.”

This not only helps Türkiye’s overarching governance, but it also helps the entire country to live better. The Directorate prioritises the mastery of technical intricacies for communication policies to raise public awareness and levels of trust.

“What the people of a country think largely shapes the responsibilities of the state. To navigate this constantly shifting landscape of ideas and perceptions, tools such as surveys, observing, and analysis are invaluable.”

There are two primary factors which influence public opinion: significant national developments and prevailing global trends. The Communications Directorate emphasizes that “One of the most prominent global trends for some time now has been sustainability. In this regard, Türkiye is fortunate, as sustainability aligns closely with the values embedded in our culture. Wastefulness, pollution, and a lack of appreciation for the natural gifts of our planet run counter to the principles with which the people of Türkiye are raised. This cultural foundation underscores the importance of sustainability in the policies of the Turkish government.”

For 2023, “the Republic of Türkiye entered the second century since its foundation. Under the visionary leadership of our President, H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the government introduced the “Century of Türkiye” initiative – an overarching policy framework aimed at fostering growth and prosperity.” Atop this, as the policy built on 17 pillars, which each contribute to fundamental concepts for communication and action, as well as sectors in which can improve the government overall, H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan has led Türkiye to deepening its understanding and appreciation of sustainable development and enhancement as a whole.

One of its pillars, the “Century of Communication,” wholly emphasises the importance of the goals related to the field of the Directorate’s institution. According to the Directorate, “In this context, however, the crucial pillar is “Century of Sustainability”, which seeks to deepen the understanding and appreciation of sustainability across individuals, public institutions, and the private sector.”

With sustainability contributing as a very large aspect of the very fabric of the country’s culture, Türkiye’s success in achieving a greater level of sustainability is set to flourish even further in the years to come – ultimately helping it to accomplish its zero waste goals in the future.

As sustainability is one of the core pillars of the country, the Directorate remarks that “The Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications prioritises not only institutional goals but also societal benefit, aligning its efforts with sustainability principles. Its distinctive services include awareness campaigns, social projects, and initiatives in line with sustainable development goals, making it a unique institution.”

By acting both nationally and internationally to achieve its goals, the Directorate leans on its robust communication network. It also carefully monitors global developments and forms invaluable partnerships at global and local levels to secure a more prosperous and healthy future for all of Türkiye.

Türkiye’s actions-both in communication and sustainability measures not only influence the rest of the world but also set a standard framework for other countries to follow. Improving the lives of its people, and the people of the world, Türkiye is always developing itself to act on what is morally right and what is truly ethical.

As “the Directorate develops innovative solutions for engagement and content creation on digital platforms, broadening its audience reach and improving communication effectiveness,” this institution is boldly committed to shaping a more inclusive, caring, and sustainable future.

It also operates with proactivity as the very crux of its being, being proactive rather than reactive. The Directorate’s efforts to foster truth for societal benefit through this approach allow it to respond effectively even in crisis situations – in a timely manner.

“The unique value of the Directorate stems from its ability to combine a strong vision with societal benefit, strategic communication, and innovative solutions, effectively addressing public needs.”

The Directorate wholeheartedly understands that one of the most pressing needs of the global population is to ensure a stable and sustainable future for all and it explains that “In this regard, the growing promotion and recognition of sustainability are highly valuable, offering significant opportunities to both the public and private sectors.”

As we are all aware, the negative consequences of environmental damage does not adhere to borders or locations. This affects everyone around the world. The Directorate is clear in its belief that “no single nation can achieve meaningful progress in sustainability on its own,” and we must all work together in a cooperative and honest way to secure safety, sustainability, and growth for our entire planet.

The establishment affirms, “By fostering a stronger global commitment to sustainability, the concept can unlock far-reaching benefits for all. Promoting and embracing this idea on a broader scale will ensure sustainability becomes a shared priority and a powerful force for positive change worldwide.”

As a highly important aspect of the Directorate, the institution’s efforts with the leadership of Prof. Fahrettin Altun, Head of Communications, has meant that the Republic of Türkiye has seen a new age of truth. Prof. Fahrettin Altun plays a pivotal role in the Directorate’s success for its nation, and his commitment to Türkiye’s “Struggle for Truth” has been an invaluable contribution to combatting disinformation and the upholding of clear communications for preserving the truth.

The “Struggle for Truth” initiative aims to “ensure the dissemination of accurate, reliable, and timely information while countering false narratives that may harm public trust or national interests.” With doing so, the Directorate continues to support the very activities which aid the entire world’s collaboration in the fight for truth.

Türkiye’s green development strategy, through its communications and Zero Waste Project, go hand in hand with the Directorate’s core values which have been prioritised more every year – especially under its current leadership.

In all, the goal of the Directorate of Communications is to encourage nations to put aside their differences and collaborate openly and effectively. By championing this vision, as well as global efforts, the Directorate aims to make sustainability a shared priority, harnessing its potential as a powerful catalyst for positive global change.

Awarding the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications is an honour, especially as the world needs positive influences for our overall prosperity, well-being, and sustainable efforts. Helping us to see the future more clearly – a future of shared responsibility and sustainable success – this institution is continually making strides in its efforts toward uniting the world. This helps us to combat our struggles and form a better environment for ourselves, our fellow inhabitants, and the generations to follow.

Contact Details

Contact: Elif Nur Aslaner

Company: Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications

Website: https://www.iletisim.gov.tr/