Engaging the League of Nations in Protecting Turkey's Minorities

The ELoN project aims to assess the League of Nations' Minority Protection System (MPS) in the context of the interwar era in Turkey.

Grounded in primary archival sources, this research examines the mechanics of the MPS and its influence on Turkey's minority policies, particularly in relation to the Lausanne Treaty of 1923. The study augments the broader understanding of the Leagues MPS by bringing insights from the Turkish case.

This research specifically delves into petitions submitted by minority individuals to the League MPS, adopting an interdisciplinary approach that integrates a variety of methodologies, including historical and legal perspectives.

ELoN's primary objectives are threefold: a) Gather fresh data on the League's MPS operations in Turkey and compile these archival materials into a ""Minority Petitions Database"". b) Identify and analyse the political and legal discourses, pivotal concepts, and events that informed the Leagues minority protection mandate on Turkey, including the implementation of the Lausanne Treaty. c) Reassess the existing literature, offering fresh theoretical insights on the Leagues MPS in light of data specific to the Turkish context.

Through these means, the research intends to provide a comprehensive understanding of the League's minority protection efforts in Turkey, placing them in the wider scope of interwar international politics and minority rights advocacy. These objectives will be met through three meticulously designed work packages.

ELoN distinguishes itself as an in-depth study of the League's MPS jurisdiction and minority petitions pertaining to Turkey. This re-evaluation enriches academic dialogue and furnishes insights for addressing Turkey's multifaceted challenges.

The specialised training and research opportunities will expand my current research and expertise and help me return to academia, placing me in a prime position to pursue a faculty position.