Crimean Tatars Expert | Ahmet Özay

Ahmet Özay is one of Germany's leading experts on Crimean Tatars and Crimea politics. As a member of the Crimean Tatar People's Mejlis and a veteran journalist with 40+ years of experience at WDR, BBC and Deutsche Welle, he provides in-depth analysis on the situation of Crimean Tatars, the Crimea annexation and geopolitical developments in the region.

The Crimean Tatars are a Turkic-speaking minority on the Crimean Peninsula who have experienced a complex and often tragic history. From the deportation in 1944 by Stalin to the annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014, the Crimean Tatars have always fought for their rights and their homeland.

Ahmet Özay, himself of Crimean Tatar origin, has established himself as one of the leading experts on Crimean Tatars in Germany. His work focuses on analyzing the political, social and cultural developments of the Crimean Tatar community, both in Ukraine and in the diaspora.

As a member of the Crimean Tatar People's Mejlis and Germany representative, Ahmet Özay actively advocates for the rights of Crimean Tatars and informs the German public about the current situation in Crimea.

Expertise & Focus Areas

  • Crimea Politics & Geopolitics

    In-depth analysis of the 2014 Crimea annexation, the geopolitical significance of the Crimean Peninsula and international responses to the Russian occupation.

  • Crimean Tatar History & Culture

    Comprehensive knowledge of Crimean Tatar history, from the 1944 deportation to the current situation, as well as the cultural identity and traditions of the community.

  • Minority Rights & Human Rights

    Expertise in minority rights, human rights and the legal situation of Crimean Tatars under Russian occupation.

  • Diaspora & Integration

    Knowledge of the Crimean Tatar diaspora in Germany, Turkey and other countries, as well as issues of integration and cultural identity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Crimean Tatars

Recent Articles on Crimean Tatars & Crimea

politik
6Minuten
01/27/2026

Sailing the Seven Seas

The Turkish Armed Forces, operating across a vast area from Somalia to Libya and from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean, will, over the next three months, set out toward new horizons in the Adriatic, the Atlantic, and the Baltic Sea in the spirit of the ‘seven seas.’

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politik
6Minuten
01/11/2026

An “Atlantic Wall” from the United States to Europe

Until now, the United States has traditionally expanded westward and southward. By seeking control over Greenland, however, Washington has for the first time placed expansion toward Europe on its strategic agenda. As President Donald Trump demands territory from Europe, the continent now finds itself facing an American threat in addition to Russia. While Washington is gradually reducing its military presence in Europe, it aims to establish a new, Northern Hemisphere–centered security architecture focused on the Venezuela–Cuba–Greenland axis. In other words, instead of building a new “Berlin Wall,” the United States is moving toward constructing an “Atlantic Wall” designed to protect itself.

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politik
3Minuten
10/29/2025

Merz's Prestige Visit

Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives in Turkey today. Defense, trade, migration and foreign policy will be the main topics. For Merz, who is under pressure in German domestic politics, this visit is critical both for prestige and strengthening his position in Europe.

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