James Baker's remarks about Fethullah Gulen and Gulen Movement

James Baker’s remarks about Fethullah Gulen and Gulen Movement

Date posted: June 22, 2013

Honorary James Baker said:

Problems of the world would be easy to address if, on the global level, we develop ways of sharing respect for each other’s religious perspectives. It is in this manner, the Gülen Institute and those who promote shared vision of interfaith dialogue provide truly invaluable leadership.

Hon. James Baker, 61st US Secretary of State

Tags: Hizmet (Gulen) movement | USA |

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Who is the winner?

The Gülen community is a movement of volunteers. The real reason for the row is not the community’s attempt to meddle in politics. It is due to its sheer size and public image. As he did with other groups or communities, Erdoğan sought to take full control of the Hizmet movement in an effort to consolidate his power. Following the defeat of the military tutelage, the government saw a convergence of power. However, the Hizmet movement was not a piece of cake which it could swallow easily. The government had previously purged itself of many bureaucrats who are close to the community.