GMF’s Ankara office opened in 2005, a time when Turkey began playing an increasingly critical role in the region, in Europe, and in the transatlantic alliance. The office works to create a platform for objective analysis and debate on Turkey in a regional and global setting. GMF’s presence in Turkey reflects the need to address policy challenges along Europe’s borders, including the Balkans, the Black Sea region, and the Middle East. Led by Özgür Ünlühisarcıklı, the office conducts analysis and convening on Turkey and facilitates fellowships and grantmaking.

A highlight of the Ankara office’s work is the twice-yearly Trilateral Strategic Group, which brings together leaders from the United States, the European Union, and Turkey for off-the-record discussions on selected themes affecting all sides of the “triangle.” The Ankara office also coordinates the popular On Turkey publication series.