The Foundation for Sciences and Arts

The Foundation for Sciences and Arts (BİSAV) is a non-governmental organization established in 1986 with the aim of contributing to Turkey's intellectual and cultural life. The foundation conducts research in the fields of science, arts, social sciences, and culture, while offering young individuals a space for free thought through seminars, workshops, and publications. Based in Istanbul, BİSAV continues to contribute to academic and cultural knowledge both nationally and internationally through its activities.

History

The Foundation for Sciences and Arts was founded in 1986 by Mustafa Özel, Murat Ülker, and Fikri Gökbörü Kançal. Its goal was to foster an intellectual discussion platform in Turkey by blending humanity’s shared knowledge and heritage. In 1989, BİSAV initiated scholarship and seminar programs, aiming to provide young individuals with a tolerant and free environment for thought.

In 2001, the foundation moved to its central building in the Vefa neighborhood of Istanbul, expanding its research activities and seminar programs. Over the years, BİSAV has hosted more than two thousand events, including seminars on economics, arts, social sciences, international relations, and Turkish studies.

Through symposia and workshops in the fields of civilization, culture, and arts, BİSAV has played a significant role at both national and international levels. Documentary and short films produced in its film workshops have won awards. The foundation continues to deepen intellectual heritage and contribute to cultural preservation.

Organizational Structure

Operating as an independent non-governmental organization, BİSAV is structured to implement specialized academic and intellectual projects. Its governance includes a president, a general secretary, and various research centers. Supported by a wide network of advisors, the foundation effectively conducts activities in diverse fields. 

Research Centers

BİSAV steers academic and cultural research through its four main research centers:

• Global Studies Center (KAM): Focuses on international relations, global politics, and strategic issues. The center conducts research on global developments and Turkey’s role on the international stage.
• Civilization Studies Center (MAM): Conducts research on philosophy, intellectual history, and civilization studies, with a particular focus on the Islamic world and Turkey’s cultural heritage.
• Arts Studies Center (SAM): Specializes in art history, aesthetics, and contemporary art. It aims to bridge traditional and modern art by analyzing Turkish and global art.
• Turkey Studies Center (TAM): Focuses on the social, political, and economic history of Turkey, conducting research spanning from the Ottoman period to the Republic era.

Publications

BİSAV publishes books, journals, and reports to share its academic work and intellectual output with society. These publications cover a wide range of topics, from social sciences to arts, contributing to the enrichment of scientific discussions and intellectual discourse.

Events

The foundation organizes seminars, conferences, workshops, and exhibitions to enrich scientific and cultural life. BİSAV’s events attract national and international academics and artists. Open lectures and seminars also appeal to a broader audience, enhancing public engagement.

Library

The BİSAV Library houses a comprehensive collection of resources in fields such as social sciences, arts, history, and cultural studies. It provides access to books, academic journals, rare works, and digital resources for researchers and students. Equipped with quiet study areas and spaces for group projects, the library supports academic endeavors and offers a valuable knowledge hub for researchers in Turkey.

Recent Developments

In recent years, BİSAV has faced political and administrative interventions, drawing public attention. The Istanbul Şehir University, founded by BİSAV, ceased its operations in 2019 due to financial issues, with all its assets transferred to Marmara University following a decision by the Higher Education Council (YÖK). This process negatively impacted the foundation’s academic and organizational structure, sparking criticism regarding its governance.

In 2020, the General Directorate of Foundations (VGM) appointed a three-member committee to oversee BİSAV’s management. VGM explained that this decision was based on the relevant articles of Turkey’s Foundations Law and aimed to ensure the foundation operated in line with its founding purpose and resolve financial issues. VGM emphasized that the intervention was intended to preserve the foundation’s values and uphold its cultural mission, not to undermine its significance. Despite these controversies, BİSAV continues its educational and cultural activities, maintaining its commitment to its intellectual and cultural mission.