Culture is the fundamental set of values that shapes a nation’s identity and distinguishes it from other communities. The cultural structure, which brings together elements such as languages, traditions, beliefs, art forms, and shared history, significantly shapes both the past memory and future vision of nations. For this reason, the preservation, perpetuation, and transmission of cultural heritage from generation to generation has become not only a national but also an international responsibility. Especially among nations that are closely linked by historical and cultural ties, preserving this heritage together is of great importance in terms of building a common identity and a sense of solidarity.
Operating within this framework, the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TÜRKSOY) designates a city as the “Capital of Culture of the Turkic World” each year to strengthen cultural ties among Turkic-speaking states. This initiative contributes significantly to both cultural diplomacy and local development by highlighting shared historical and cultural values among the nations of the Turkic world. Aktau, Kazakhstan, which held this title in 2025, showcased one of the finest examples of intercultural dialogue and solidarity through the events it organized throughout the year. Following this successful process in Aktau, the title was transferred to the historic city of Andijan, Uzbekistan, for 2026.[i]
Cities designated as cultural capitals gain significant advantages not only in terms of cultural activities, but also in terms of local economic development, cultural tourism, international investment, and city image. At this stage, Andican has the opportunity for economic transformation through its cultural development model. An increase in cultural events can accelerate tourism activity in the city, creating new job opportunities in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and gastronomy. In the long term, this directly contributes to the quality of life of the city’s residents.
In addition, investments in cultural infrastructure may also yield results in the field of education. Workshops, scholarship programs, and international exchange projects expected to be launched for young artists support local talent. Thus, the title of Capital of Culture is not just a one-year promotional campaign, but can be seen as an opportunity for sustainable cultural development.
The role Aktau has assumed throughout 2025 serves as an important example of how cultural capital can be mobilized. More than thirty international events held in the city have brought together artists and cultural actors from Turkic-speaking states, strengthening both cultural sharing and a sense of shared identity. As stated by Aida Balayeva, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information, Aktau has become “the heart of the Turkic world,” a center representing cultural diversity with rich content in many different fields such as music, theater, cinema, and folk dances.[ii]
In this context, the title of “Capital of Culture” transferred to Andijan for 2026 was not merely awarded symbolically at a ceremony; it also signifies the transfer of cultural and diplomatic responsibility. Presentations led by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Culture, Ozodbek Nazarbekov, demonstrated that Andijan is prepared for this title. In particular, the international commemoration programs planned to mark the 585th anniversary of the birth of Alisher Nevai, the great Turkish poet, thinker, statesman, and linguist, are among the events that will strengthen cultural unity not only locally but also regionally. The plan to perform concerts featuring Nevai’s ghazals in Turkey and other Turkic states is expected to enable the preservation of the common literary heritage at a transnational level. In addition, innovative proposals presented by Uzbekistan, such as “Digitalization of TURKSOY” and “Creative Industries Forum,” add contemporary dimensions to cultural diplomacy. The preservation of cultural heritage through digital platforms makes it possible to reach wider audiences without being tied to physical spaces, thus ensuring the continuity of cultural transmission. The transfer of TÜRKSOY’s temporary coordination to the Uzbek side indicates that Andijan will play an important role not only in cultural activities but also in organizational terms throughout 2026.[iii]
This phase also offers young artists, academics, and cultural professionals the opportunity to develop new partnerships and projects. The “Voice of TURKSOY” competition and the establishment of a joint art community proposed by Minister Nazarbekov aim to bring together the musical and performative traditions of the Turkic world on a common platform. Such initiatives are expected to accelerate cultural exchange and creative production in the Turkic world.
Andijan is one of the most ancient historical cities not only in contemporary Uzbekistan but also in all of Central Asia. Located in the east of the Fergana Valley, it has been an important stop on the Silk Road for centuries, developing a rich cultural landscape with madrasahs, khans, mosques, and art centers. In addition, the poet and thinker Ali Shir Nava’i, who is greatly respected in his homeland, played a decisive role in the development of Turkish literature. Furthermore, the selection of Andijan as the cultural capital in 2026 is not only a symbolic choice but also a strategic decision that brings historical heritage into the present day.[iv]
With this title, Andican has the opportunity to make its local historical heritage visible again and strengthen its cultural infrastructure. The process of becoming a cultural capital encourages the functional restructuring of museums, cultural centers, and art institutions in the city, which can both create employment and contribute to the city’s economy.
Andican’s designation as the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World for 2026 is a strategic decision expected to yield multidimensional results. The city is well-equipped to successfully carry out this role, thanks to both its historical heritage and its contemporary cultural potential. The example of Aktau has demonstrated how such cultural projects can strengthen ties within the Turkic world. Andican is also expected to become a center that will contribute to cultural cooperation in a similar way.
The title of cultural capital is not just a symbolic title; it is a dynamic stage that allows for the reconstruction of cultural identity on an international scale. Andican’s performance in this process is expected to set an example for other Turkish cities to strengthen themselves with cultural diplomacy tools in the future. Ultimately, this cultural bond, built on a shared history, language, and values, will strengthen the solidarity of the Turkish world at both the regional and global levels.
[i] “Andijan will bear the title of Cultural Capital of the Turkic World in 2026”, TÜRKSOY, https://www.turksoy.org/en-US/news/andijan-will-bear-the-title-of-cultural-capital-of-the-turkic-world-in-2026, (Date Accession: 08.12.2025).
[ii] Ibid.
[iii] “Andijan to Become the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World in 2026”, Uzdaily, https://www.uzdaily.uz/en/andijan-to-become-the-cultural-capital-of-the-turkic-world-in-2026/, (Date Accession: 08.12.2025).
[iv] Ibid.
