turanizing

Turanizing refers to a concept within Turkic nationalism that describes the process of Turkification of non-Turkic peoples in a region historically associated with Turkic influence, often referred to as Turan. This ideology generally advocates for the assimilation of these groups into a perceived common Turkic culture, language, and identity. The term "Turan" itself refers to a historical and geographical region that encompasses parts of Central Asia and Eastern Europe, believed to be the ancestral homeland of Turkic peoples.

The concept of Turanizing has been present in various nationalist movements throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in the Ottoman Empire and later in Turkey, as well as among some Turkic groups in Russia and other neighboring countries. Proponents of Turanizing often emphasize shared linguistic roots, cultural similarities, and historical connections as justification for uniting disparate Turkic-speaking populations. The practical implementation of such policies has varied, ranging from linguistic and cultural reforms aimed at promoting a unified Turkic identity to more forceful assimilationist measures.

Critiques of Turanizing often point to its potential for ethnic discrimination and the suppression of minority cultures and languages. Critics argue that it can lead to the marginalization of non-Turkic groups and may not accurately reflect the complex ethnic and cultural mosaic of the regions it seeks to encompass. The historical application of such ideologies has sometimes been associated with irredentist claims and has been a source of tension in regional politics.