Center for Public Policy and Democracy Studies (PODEM) is a research and advocacy think tank based in Istanbul.

As PODEM, we seek to contribute to the efforts towards a Turkey where democracy is fully institutionalized and where a democratic mindset prevails. We further envision a Turkey that is increasingly influential in the establishment of peace and justice on social, regional, and global levels.

To this end, we analyze the changing dynamics of the society of Turkey and of other relevant societies and states through rigorous field research and provide policy proposals in the light of our findings. We share our policy proposals with the public and relevant political and social actors.

As PODEM, we aim to forge synergy between the government, public institutions and local civil society actors, and contribute to reform processes and policy-making efforts.