The streets of New York City have become an unexpected canvas for a bold political message as famous quotes from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan — including his widely recognised phrase, “The world is bigger than five” — are now prominently displayed on major roads and avenues across the city. The move coincides with ongoing global discussions at the United Nations and is being interpreted as a strategic diplomatic message calling for reform in international governance structures.
The slogan, which challenges the dominance of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, has become a recurring theme in President Erdoğan’s speeches at global forums. It reflects Turkey’s growing demand for a more inclusive and equitable international order, especially in the face of mounting global crises where decisions affecting billions are often made by a handful of powerful states.
Another of Erdoğan’s signature lines, “A fairer world is possible,” is also featured in the campaign — a clear nod to Ankara’s long-standing position that global institutions must reflect the realities of the 21st century, not the post-World War II era.
The messaging campaign, reportedly backed by Turkish diplomatic and cultural organisations, has drawn attention from both passersby and political observers, especially as world leaders gather in New York for high-level UN meetings. The strategic placement of the billboards and digital displays underscores Turkey’s intent to project its foreign policy narrative to an international audience.
President Erdoğan has, on numerous occasions, criticised the current structure of the UN Security Council, where the five permanent members — the United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China — wield veto powers. According to him, this concentration of power is outdated and fails to represent the geopolitical dynamics of today’s world, where developing nations and emerging economies are demanding a stronger voice.
The campaign in New York comes at a time when global debates around multilateralism, post-colonialism, and international equity are gaining momentum. By putting its message in the heart of the West’s most iconic city, Turkey is sending a clear signal: it is ready to be part of a reformed world order — one that values justice, inclusivity, and equal representation.
