UID was founded in 2004 in Cologne, Germany, under the name “Union of European Turkish Democrats” (UETD). On May 20, 2018, during its 6th Ordinary General Assembly held in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it updated its name to Union of International Democrats (UID) and expanded its activities to an international level. UID is a non-governmental organization that aims to address the social, political, and cultural challenges faced by the Turkish diaspora and related communities, primarily in Europe. It supports the integration of individuals with immigrant backgrounds into their host societies while combating racism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, and all forms of hostility based on race or religion. UID advocates for values such as equal citizenship, democratic participation, and multiculturalism. The organization places special emphasis on projects that empower women and youth to play a more active and impactful role in social life.
UID United Kingdom was established on December 8, 2024, under the leadership of Halil Erdoğan. In line with UID’s global vision, it aims to strengthen the social, cultural, and political presence of the Turkish community and related groups in the United Kingdom. Its activities are designed to address the challenges faced by the community and to support their active participation in social life. UID United Kingdom encourages the integration of immigrant-background individuals into British society while promoting the preservation of their cultural identity. At the same time, it is actively engaged in combating discrimination, including racism, Islamophobia, and xenophobia.
UID was established in 2004 in Cologne, Germany, under the name Union of European Turkish Democrats (UETD). On May 20, 2018, during its 6th Ordinary General Assembly held in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the organization changed its name to the Union of International Democrats (UID) and expanded its scope of activity to the international level. UID is a non-governmental organization that aims to develop solutions to the social, political, and cultural challenges faced by the Turkish diaspora and related communities living abroad, particularly in Europe.
While supporting the integration of individuals with immigrant backgrounds into their host societies, UID actively combats racism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, and all forms of hostility based on race or religion. It upholds the values of equal citizenship, democratic participation, and multiculturalism. UID places special importance on projects that enable women and youth to participate more strongly and actively in social life.
The UID United Kingdom Branch was founded on December 8, 2024, under the leadership of Halil Erdoğan. Aligned with UID’s global vision, it aims to strengthen the social, cultural, and political presence of the Turkish community and related groups in the United Kingdom. Its activities are shaped to offer solutions to the challenges faced by the community and to encourage active participation in public life.
UID United Kingdom supports the integration of individuals with immigrant backgrounds into their country of residence, while also encouraging the preservation of cultural identity. At the same time, it actively fights against discrimination, including racism, Islamophobia, and xenophobia.
Committee on Diplomatic Relations
The committee works to promote UID UK’s vision and projects within diplomatic circles, establish strategic partnerships, and contribute to processes of commercial diplomacy.
Committee on Education, Culture, and Publications
The committee aims to raise public awareness and promote UID UK’s vision to a wider audience through educational programs, cultural events, and publishing activities.
Committee on Administrative Affairs, Human Resources, Budget, and Finance
Committee on Export Development
The committee aims to support members in expanding into new markets by providing guidance on international trade opportunities, trade delegations, business trips, and access to export incentives.
Committee on Corporate Communications
The committee strengthens UID UK’s corporate identity by managing media relations, digital platforms, brand management, and event promotions.
Committee on Industrial Production and Policies
The committee works on industrial investments, production efficiency, sustainable industry practices, and technology integration, aiming to help members achieve a strong position in global competition.
Committee on Sectoral Councils and Trade Fair Forums
The committee supports UID UK members in playing a more active role in global markets by organizing participation in national and international trade fairs, sectoral panels, business forums, and networking events.
Committee on Strategy and R&D
The committee monitors technological transformations in the business world and provides guidance to members on R&D incentives, innovation support, and strategic growth opportunities.
Committee on Joint Procurement and Partnerships
The committee aims to enhance the competitiveness of UID UK members through strategic partnerships, collective procurement agreements, and business development projects.
Committee on International Relations
The committee establishes strategic relationships with commercial and diplomatic actors in various countries, providing UID UK members with new business opportunities and access to global networks.
UID UK Trade Office
The office aims to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries by providing members with trade consultancy, business development support, and guidance in establishing international business connections.
UID UK Invest
The committee analyzes investment opportunities and guides members in establishing strategic partnerships, accessing incentives, and obtaining financial consultancy.
UID UK Women
The committee aims to promote equal opportunities by organizing educational programs, networking events, and mentorship activities that empower women in economic, social, and cultural spheres.
Young UID UK
The committee supports young professionals and entrepreneurs by organizing educational programs, mentorship opportunities, leadership development projects, and networking events, helping them build a stronger presence in both career and social life.
Committee on Overseas Organization Development
The committee works to increase UID UK’s international visibility by establishing new representations in different countries, strengthening connections with the business world, and promoting global partnerships.
Committee on Domestic Organization, Membership Admission, and Member Relations
The committee manages the admission process for new members while working to strengthen relationships with existing members and encourage their active participation in UID UK’s activities.
UID UK is a dynamic organization that brings together businesspeople, entrepreneurs, and professionals living in the United Kingdom with the aim of strengthening the economic, cultural, and social ties between Turkey and the UK. By developing innovative and sustainable business models, one of our primary goals is to enable our members to play a more active role in global markets, support the entrepreneurship ecosystem, and establish strategic partnerships.
At the same time, we develop projects that promote democratic participation, support cultural diversity, and ensure the strong representation of the Turkish community in the United Kingdom.
As UID UK, we operate through various committees and projects to enhance the global competitiveness of our members in international trade, guide investment, and support economic development. From diplomatic relations to commercial cooperation, from education to women’s entrepreneurship, we carry out a wide range of activities with a firm commitment to building a strong future for the Turkish community living in the United Kingdom.
We remain dedicated to working in unity as UID UK to contribute to Turkey’s strength and achieve sustainable success in the world of business.
As UID United Kingdom, we actively operate in the following fields:
1. Social Cohesion and Harmony
Through projects that promote understanding, respect, and harmony among different cultures and communities, we support the social and cultural integration of individuals with immigrant backgrounds.
2. Combating Racism and Discrimination
We carry out awareness campaigns, educational activities, and public outreach efforts against racism, Islamophobia, and xenophobia.
3. Promotion of Multiculturalism
We carry out initiatives aimed at preserving and celebrating diverse cultural identities, viewing multiculturalism as a valuable asset within society.
4. Equal Citizenship and Democratic Participation
We aim to increase the participation of the Turkish community and other immigrant groups in political processes and to promote active citizenship in both general and local elections.
5. Participation of Immigrants in Social Life
We aim to enhance individuals’ quality of life and support their integration into society by developing projects in the fields of education, employment, and social inclusion.
6. Preservation of Cultural Heritage
Passing on cultural heritage to future generations and preserving Turkish identity are among our top priorities.
7. Foster Family Awareness
We conduct awareness campaigns about the foster family system to ensure that children under protection can grow up in safe and supportive environments.
