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The historic city of Konya officially stepped into its role as the Islamic Cooperation Organization (OIC) Youth Capital on May 11, hosting a grand opening ceremony that balanced celebration with a serious call for regional stability.
Organized by the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF) and the Konya Metropolitan Municipality, the event drew youth ministers and diplomats from across the Islamic world.
Amid ongoing regional tensions, the gathering served as a strategic platform to advocate for unity and the empowerment of the next generation.
Konya takes over the prestigious title from Marrakesh, Morocco (2025) and Shusha, Azerbaijan (2024). During the ceremony, speakers highlighted Konya’s rapidly growing status as a center for international mega-events. The city, which previously served as the 2023 World Sports Capital and is currently the 2026 European Capital of Cycling, was praised for its hospitality and experience in sports diplomacy.
"Konya is a city where history, science, and spirituality meet," stated Mayor Ugur Ibrahim Altay, noting that the city’s Seljuk heritage provides a unique foundation for modern international dialogue.
The opening was marked by a reflection on the humanitarian crises in Gaza and the surrounding regions. Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Askin Bak and other officials used the platform to condemn attacks on civilian infrastructure, including schools, universities, and hospitals.
In direct response to these global challenges, Konya has designated "Diplomacy" as the central theme for 2026. The goal is to develop a "Diplomacy of the Heart" that prioritizes justice over political interest.
To support this, the city introduced a special publication titled "Daha Adil Bir Dunya Icin 23 Yil" (23 Years for a Fairer World), which outlines a vision for global reform and justice based on the principle that "the world is bigger than five".
The "Youth Capital" program is not merely symbolic; it includes a rigorous schedule of international activities led by the ICYF. Throughout 2026, Konya will host:
Global diplomacy panels: A flagship panel titled "Building Bridges from Our Deep-Rooted Heritage to a Just Future" will explore how cultural identity can revitalize multilateral dialogue.
To ensure the title leaves a lasting impact, the Konya Metropolitan Municipality is integrating the year's themes into its existing youth infrastructure.
Local initiatives such as the Kapsul Technology Platform, the Social Innovation Agency, and the Genc Kultur Kart (card) will provide the technical and cultural support necessary for young participants to develop strategic solutions to global problems.
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