Alevism and Bektashism in Iraqi Turkmen

Alevism and Bektashism, as distinct interpretations of Islam, have a long historical background and have evolved through social and cultural dynamics in Anatolia and surrounding regions from the Ottoman Empire to the present day. Alevism emphasizes social justice, equality, and mystical elements, while Bektashism stands out with its structured order and unique rituals. These two belief systems have held a significant place within the Turkmen community as expressions of identity, belonging, and cultural expression. However, the contemporary influence and historical development of Alevism and Bektashism among Iraqi Turkmens have not been thoroughly examined in the literature. Accordingly, this thesis aims to reveal the role of Alevism and Bektashism in the identity and social structure formation within the Turkmen community. Furthermore, the study explores the contributions of Alevism and Bektashism to democratic processes, their functions in ensuring cultural continuity, and their impact on social solidarity. This study, based on a literature review, analyzes available written sources, focusing on classic works on Alevism and Bektashism as well as research conducted on Iraqi Turkmens. Through these sources, the study assesses the social impact of Alevism and Bektashism among Iraqi Turkmens. The literature used in this study provides valuable insights into the socio-cultural dynamics of Alevism and Bektashism and their contributions to Turkmen identity.