DW’s Outdated and Biased Portrayal of Türkiye
By Alper
It is disappointing to see Deutsche Welle (DW) continue to misrepresent Türkiye with reductive imagery and outdated terminology. On its country profile page, DW chose to illustrate the entire nation with the image of a single religious figure, suggesting that Türkiye’s complex identity can be reduced to one narrow stereotype. Such framing ignores the country’s vibrant diversity—its secular institutions, modern cities, dynamic youth, and cultural richness.
Equally troubling is DW’s refusal to use the country’s official name, Türkiye, even after the United Nations formally recognized the change in 2022. By continuing to label the country “Turkey,” DW disregards both diplomatic protocol and the nation’s right to self-identify.
For an international broadcaster that prides itself on accuracy and fairness, these choices undermine credibility and reinforce outdated narratives. Türkiye is more than a stereotype—it is a modern republic, a founding member of NATO, and a bridge between East and West. Global media outlets should reflect that reality with respect.
Alper is a Turkish-American intellectual and a columnist for Turknews.com.
