ALT was established in December 1992. The objectives of ALT as a non-profit, non-governmental organization are to introduce to Turkish public the richness of the intellectual tradition that lay at heart of the liberal democratic civilization to engage in activities that promote understanding and acceptance of values and concepts like liberty, justice, tolerance, peace, human rights, the rule of law, to encourage academic researches on liberal themes; and to contribute to finding effective solutions to Turkey's political and economic problems within liberal thought.

ALT brings together like-minded people whose belief in and commitment to liberty, free market economy, and limited government have been proved by their intellectual and professional work.

ALT does not involve in day to day politics and have no direct links with any political party or movement. Instead, as an independent intellectual grouping, it aims to set and influence broader political debates so as to contribute to the liberalization of Turkey in economic and political fields.