Fethullah Gülen

Early Life and Background

Fethullah Gülen was born on April 27, 1941, in Erzurum, Turkey. He grew up in a modest family, receiving a religious education from his early years, which significantly shaped his worldview. Gülen became a prominent figure in the Turkish Islamic community, advocating for a moderate, modern interpretation of Islam. He established various educational institutions both in Turkey and abroad, emphasizing the importance of science and dialogue between different cultures and religions.

Influence and Controversy

In the 1990s, Gülen’s teachings gained a substantial following, leading to the formation of what is known as the Gülen Movement, characterized by its commitment to education, social work, and intercultural dialogue. However, his influence has been a subject of intense controversy, especially following the 2016 coup attempt in Turkey, which the government attributed to Gülen and his followers. This resulted in a significant crackdown on his movement, with many members facing imprisonment and extradition requests from Turkey, drawing international attention to issues of freedom and human rights.