DEMOS Research Collective was established in Ankara in 2015 by a group of social scientists with the aim to collectivity generate alternative knowledge.

Our research is driven by the vision of a society in which groups and collectives of various identities, stateless peoples and minorities can peacefully live together in equality and respect for each other’s differences. In this sense, the Centre values the demands of disenfranchised peoples and collectives in their struggles for freedom and equality, and is committed to enriching research and developing alternative politics which can serve as a catalyst for the establishment of a society anchored in the principles of freedom, democracy, social justice and truth. In its work, the Centre therefore adopts a critical research ethos, independent of states, governments, corporations, and political parties.

The research of the Centre circles around five principal areas:

  • Peace, Reconciliation, Social Memory
  • Autonomy, Minority Governance and Self-Determination,
  • Human Rights, Citizenship and Democracy
  • Middle Eastern Studies
  • Social Movements

DEMOS is dedicated to enhancing a better understanding of the issues in these areas and promoting meaningful solutions to these problems. By ensuring a wide dissemination of its research insights through conducting research projects, organizing talks, panels and conferences as well as publishing reports, analysis and studies, DEMOS seeks to actively encourage debates in society with the aim to achieve a positive social impact. In doing so, DEMOS cooperates with local and international organizations working in these fields.

GOVERNING PRINCIPLES

  • DEMOS is a non-profit association, independent of states, governments, corporations, and political parties.
  • In all its activities, the Centre embraces the principles of human rights, equality among genders, and anti-discrimination.
  • The centre supports the cultural, social and economic rights of all autochthonous minorities and those peoples in danger of extinction.
  • It acknowledges the importance of understanding society and nature as two intrinsically interconnected entities and therefore positions itself against any forms of environmental destruction.
  • DEMOS ensures that the knowledge it produces benefits all disenfranchised communities and is free and easily accessible.