The Role of The United States in Turkey’s Political Transformations
Abstract
At the beginning of the XXI century, the political landscape in Turkey changed significantly. The rise of the Justice and Development Party caused a significant decrease in the traditional influence of the military over the state policy. The strengthening of the civil authorities was also accompanied by a clear trend towards a greater political role for religion in Turkish society. The Islamic orientation of the Justice and Development Party clearly broke with the Kemalist paradigm in national politics. The internal political transformation was followed by a shift in Turkish foreign policy. Ankara attempted to position itself as a regional centre of power in the Middle East, however, the initial successes in this field transformed into an eventual weakening of Turkish standing in the world. While the region witnessed growing confrontation among competing fractions, Ankara’s policy towards Syria alienated it from Iran and the Shia bloc. Meanwhile, its support of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt put it at odds with Saudi Arabia. The previous weakening of ties with the West and primarily with the United States made its strategic position even more problematic. Finally, in recent years, traditional partnership ties with Israel have also deteriorated.
As the international environment becomes less favourable for Turkey, its internal politics today are defined by the rise of authoritarian trends in the policy of the Justice and Development Party. The victory over the military establishment enabled it to consolidate its influence by using all available instruments, including pressure on police, justice representatives, and mass-media.
The abovementioned developments in the domestic and foreign policies of Turkey were clearly monitored by its American ally. The U.S. perceived the shifts ongoing in the country quite dispassionately until recently. Today, there is a growing annoyance in Washington with the authoritarian trends in Turkey and its too independently minded foreign policy.
About the Author
Arslan Gurbangeldiev
MGIMO University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Mr Arslan Gurbangeldiev – Doctoral Candidate, School of Political Affairs, MGIMO University
Moscow, 119454
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Review
For citations:
Gurbangeldiev A. The Role of The United States in Turkey’s Political Transformations. International Trends / Mezhdunarodnye protsessy. 2014;12(4):101-115. (In Russ.)
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