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The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Liberty (FNF) is an independent, nonprofit, nongovernmental organization. It is committed to promoting freedom as the most important and essential element of liberalism.  

The Foundation has been present in Turkey since 1991. Our office was moved from Ankara to Istanbul in 2002. Turkey is of special geo-strategic importance for NATO, Europe and Germany because of her geographic position as an energy transmission country and also her ties with the Caucasus.  Furthermore, following Romania's and Bulgaria's accession to the EU, Turkey has become an immediate geographical neighbor of the Union – apart from being a candidate for full membership. 

Therefore, the Foundation’s work and objectives regarding the promotion of liberal principles and democracy have acquired particular relevance and importance. 

Our Objectives 

Our activities in Turkey aim at promoting the  vital elements of liberalism: 

  • Freedom and Democracy: The separation of powers is a key prerequisite for a liberal democracy. It acts as a protective mechanism and prevents the misuse and the concentration of power in the hands of a few.
  • Human Rights and the Rule of Law: Human rights and the rule of law are important for all citizens; they enable a life in safety, equal opportunities and fair treatment regardless of wealth, race, gender or social status.
  • Market Economy and Competition: Free and open markets based on basic rules and with limited state intervention guarantee the creation of wealth and prosperity for the citizens. Privatization and competition are a bulwark against monopolies and secure fair trade.

Apart from promoting liberal principles, the Foundation conducts and facilitates the exchange and transfer of knowledge between Germany, Europe and Turkey. FNF also organizes the Caucasus dialogue, with an emphasis on the dialogue between Turkey and Armenia. 

Our Target Groups  

Our events are directed at leaders and decision makers in 

  • politics
  • the economy
  • media
  • the public service
  • academia
  • youth organizations


Our Instruments

  • Workshops
  • Conferences
  • Seminars



All our events are conducted in a participants’ oriented method, as we believe in the capacity of the individual. Our activities also aim at increasing the political engagement and participation of the citizen in politics and in society.