Muhammed Zincirli, Şehnaz Şahinkarakaş
This study examines English as a Foreign Language (EFL) lecturers’ views on integrating global issues into language teaching in Turkish higher education. Using a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, data were collected from 414 EFL lecturers across 12 universities via a questionnaire, followed by semi-structured interviews with 29 participants. Quantitative results indicate that EFL lecturers generally support the integration of global issues into EFL instruction. While gender, age, or overall teaching experience did not yield significant differences, prior experience specifically with global-issue-based instruction emerged as a significant factor. Among the themes, environmental issues were prioritized due to their perceived familiarity and pedagogical accessibility. In contrast, language imperialism was rated as the least important theme. Qualitative findings further clarify that this reluctance toward language imperialism stems from its ideological sensitivity, despite its relevance to culture and linguistic awareness. The study concludes with practical implications for language teachers, curriculum designers, and materials developers.