Abstract:
This thesis examines how Turkish civil society organizations exercise agency and resilience in
preserving and protecting the memory and cultural heritage of Armenians, Assyrians, and
Greeks in Turkey in the face of both hard and soft constraints. Despite increasing
authoritarianism, state oppression, and mistrust from their Armenian counterparts, these
NGOs have exhibited resilience and creatively navigated these constraints to continue their
work. Through their persistence and adaptation, they have helped safeguard the heritage
and memory of these indigenous minority groups. The thesis aims to provide insights into the
strategies employed by these NGOs to navigate challenging circumstances and contribute to
ongoing efforts for reconciliation in Turkey.
