Tarık Özcan
Joined Meer in November 2024
Tarık Özcan

Tarık is a political analyst from Istanbul, Turkey, currently pursuing a Master's degree in International Relations at the University of Warsaw. He completed his bachelor's degree in international relations at the same university, where his thesis, titled "Black Sea Security and NATO: The Role of Turkey," focused heavily on transatlantic issues and Turkey's strategic position within NATO. His academic work explores security dynamics in the Black Sea region and the broader implications of NATO’s role in regional and global security. Throughout his studies, Tarık has honed his interest in security studies and asymmetric warfare, with a particular focus on transatlantic relations, NATO, and the geopolitical complexities of the Black Sea.

As a student, Tarık is committed to expanding his understanding of international security issues, particularly in the context of transatlantic security and NATO's evolving role in global geopolitics. He is deeply interested in the strategic considerations of NATO countries, with a particular focus on how they navigate challenges posed by emerging global threats and regional conflicts. Tarık's academic research on the Black Sea region delves into the security challenges posed by both traditional and asymmetric threats, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the current geopolitical landscape.

Although still in the early stages of his professional career, Tarık has gained valuable experience through his involvement in research and policy analysis. He interned as a project research officer at Young and Hired, an organization focused on providing career consultancy for young people interested in pursuing careers in international relations. During his time there, he worked on the "International Relations Opportunities Map" project, a comprehensive resource that analyzes over 180 countries to identify career opportunities in NGOs, international organizations, and government bodies. This project has served as a vital tool for young professionals seeking to enter the field of international relations, showcasing Tarık’s ability to combine research with practical applications that can benefit those entering the workforce.

In addition to his academic and research background, Tarık is transitioning into a professional role as a political analyst, where he will apply his extensive knowledge of international security issues, particularly in the context of transatlantic relations and NATO’s evolving security strategies. While this marks the beginning of his formal career in the field, his solid academic foundation, research experience, and deep understanding of geopolitical issues ensure that he is well-equipped to make valuable contributions to the media agency he will be working with.

Tarık’s expertise in international relations and security studies extends to his writing, where he has explored topics such as Black Sea security and the missile incident in Przewodów during the Russia-Ukraine crisis. These pieces demonstrate his ability to analyze complex geopolitical situations and present them in a clear and insightful manner. His passion for writing about international security is driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to discussions on global peace and diplomacy, using his analytical skills to explore the challenges facing international security and how they can be addressed through multilateral cooperation and diplomacy.

Tarık’s goal is to become a leading expert in international security, with a particular focus on transatlantic relations and NATO’s security framework. He aspires to contribute to the development of global peace and security strategies through his research, writing, and professional endeavors. His long-term vision is to use his expertise to inform policy decisions that can help navigate the complexities of global conflicts and promote peaceful solutions to security challenges.

Born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey, Tarık’s fascination with international relations and security studies stems from his childhood interest in global affairs. Growing up in a cosmopolitan city at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, he developed a keen understanding of the importance of international cooperation and security. This early exposure to diverse cultures and geopolitical dynamics has shaped his academic and professional aspirations. Tarık is deeply committed to leaving a lasting impact on the world, aiming to contribute to the broader field of international relations and security studies and make a tangible difference in the pursuit of global peace.

In addition to his academic and professional pursuits, Tarık has been actively involved with BETA Polska (Bringing Europeans Together Association Poland). Since April 2023, where he serves as Vice Head of PR and, since November 2023, as a member of the Supervisory Board. He was instrumental in organizing the Model European Union 2024 simulation, which brought together over 100 participants from across Europe. In his role as PR Manager, he successfully led his team in managing all social communication channels for the event, showcasing his leadership skills and ability to manage complex projects.

Tarık’s dedication to the field of international relations, combined with his academic achievements, research experience, and growing professional network, makes him a promising young professional in the realm of international security. He is motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully to global peace and diplomacy, with a vision to become a leader in the field and help shape the future of international security.

Articles by Tarık Özcan

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