Turkish TV series have evolved into significant tools of cultural diplomacy, representing Türkiye’s rich heritage and societal values to millions of viewers worldwide.

Today, these series are exported to over 170 countries, fostering international curiosity and admiration for Türkiye’s history, lifestyle, and modern identity. From South America to Asia, and Europe to the Middle East, Turkish productions continue to expand their global footprint, acting as cultural bridges that connect diverse audiences.

Associate Professor İbrahim Sarıtaş from Ankara Hacı Bayram Veli University highlights the pivotal role of these productions in shaping Türkiye’s soft power strategy. Themes such as love, revenge, and family dynamics resonate universally, allowing these series to transcend borders effortlessly. The inclusion of Türkiye’s iconic locations, such as the breathtaking Bosphorus, traditional Turkish homes, and Ottoman-era architecture, enriches the storytelling, further engaging international viewers.

Beyond entertainment, Turkish TV series contribute to Türkiye’s global influence in multiple ways. They amplify Türkiye’s soft power, showcase cultural richness, and promote tourism. Scenes featuring Turkish coffee rituals, wedding traditions, or family gatherings often spark curiosity and inspire viewers to visit Türkiye. These cultural exports have also played a role in strengthening Türkiye’s relationships with countries where the series have found large audiences, such as Latin America and the Balkans.

However, experts like Sarıtaş emphasize investing in original storytelling and nurturing new talent to sustain this success. Supporting scriptwriters and cultivating fresh narratives through educational platforms and workshops can ensure the Turkish series maintains global appeal while staying rooted in local authenticity.

At Medit, we share this vision by empowering filmmakers with co-production and funding services tailored for international success. By fostering collaboration and supporting unique, culturally resonant stories, we aim to help creative voices from Türkiye reach global audiences.

📢 Explore how Medit can support your next project with co-production and funding solutions. Let’s spread unique stories together!