The role of transnational bonds in self- positioning of Armenians in Turkey

It is difficult to draw a clear-cut framework on Armenian identity in Turkey and to position Armenian community in Turkey due to geographical, historical and cultural dynamics. Related to that, various senses of belonging provide possible grounds for the creation of multiple Armenian identities. Being a citizen, being a member of a minority group, being a part of an Armenian nation creates this complexity. The impact of transnational relations as well as transcommunal encounters are worth to be considered in order to clarify the picture. This paper examines the self-positioning of Armenians in Turkey and the impact of their relations with Armenians of Armenia and diaspora on their identity construction process. A fieldwork conducted between May 2010 and November 2010 in Yeşilköy; one of districts of Istanbul where a considerable part of Armenians lives, constitutes the basis of the study.