An online conference was held at Tarsus University on the occasion of April 23, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day. At the conference, Prof. Dr. Fahriye Emgili, a faculty member of the Department of History at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of Mersin University, took part as a guest speaker.

In her speech titled “National Sovereignty and Atatürk,” Prof. Dr. Emgili described April 23 as a historical turning point when national sovereignty emerged and the future was entrusted to children. Addressing the historical development of the concept of national sovereignty, she emphasized that this concept had been one of the fundamental principles adopted by Atatürk since the beginning of the National Struggle. Referring to Atatürk’s words in the Amasya Circular, “The independence of the nation will be saved by the determination and resolve of the nation itself,” Prof. Dr. Emgili stated that this principle outlined the path to be followed. She further noted that with the opening of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye on April 23, 1920, it was declared that sovereignty belonged to the nation, sending a clear message that the Turkish nation would not surrender to the occupying forces.

Prof. Dr. Emgili also pointed out that April 23 is the first national holiday of the Republic of Türkiye and concluded her speech with the following words: “April 23 is the rising of a nation, the harbinger of the Republic, and a reflection of the infinite trust placed in children.”