Fethullah Gülen: Who Is He and Why Does He Matter?
If you've heard of Fethullah Gülen, you might be wondering why his name pops up often in discussions about Turkey and global religious movements. Gülen is a Turkish Islamic scholar and preacher who founded the Gülen movement, also called Hizmet. This network has influenced education, media, and civil society in many countries.
Born in 1941 in Turkey, Gülen rose from a background of religious study to become a prominent voice for a moderate and modern interpretation of Islam. He emphasizes education, interfaith dialogue, and community service as ways to improve society. His ideas attracted many followers who built schools, charities, and businesses inspired by his teachings.
What Is the Gülen Movement?
The Gülen movement is a loose network rather than a formal organization. It spreads through schools, cultural centers, and various institutions worldwide. Followers, often called "Gülenists," promote values like tolerance, science, and education within an Islamic framework. Many have praised the movement for advancing quality schooling and dialogue across religions.
But the movement also has critics, especially in Turkey. The Turkish government accuses Gülen and his followers of trying to infiltrate state institutions and even plotting against the state. These tensions escalated dramatically after a failed coup attempt in 2016, which the Turkish government blames on Gülen, though he denies involvement. This conflict has led to crackdowns on the movement and its members within Turkey.
Why Should You Care About Fethullah Gülen?
Understanding Gülen means getting a clearer picture of modern Turkish politics and the complex role religion plays in society today. Whether you’re interested in global Islam, education reform, or geopolitics, the Gülen movement offers a case study in how religious ideas can shape culture, policy, and international relations.
From running schools across continents to influencing media and politics, the movement has left a mark far beyond Turkey. It challenges us to think about how faith-based networks can act as both forces for community-building and sources of controversy.
So next time you hear about Fethullah Gülen, you’ll know he’s more than just a name — he represents a story about faith, power, and struggle in the modern world.
