Turkish foreign policy has changed considerably in recent years and has become increasingly aggressive. Esme Nicholson talks with Sinem Adar and Hürcan Aslı Aksoy on how domestic political dynamics shape Ankara’s foreign relations with Europe.
Following the European Council meeting last week which suggests a dual approach for Turkey-EU relations, William Noah Glucroft talks to Günter Seufert and Ilke Toygür about the most important issues that are confronting the EU-Turkey relations with a special focus on the next steps.
An Overview of Institutions and Politics
doi:10.18449/2021RP02
Turkey’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention is a clear attack on human rights and the rule of law. This move is part of President Erdoğan’s strategy to remain in power. Brussels should demand a reversal of the withdrawal, says Hürcan Aslı Aksoy.
Ankara’s harsh response to the protests at Boğaziçi University belie the vulnerabilities of the AKP/MHP coalition. Sinem Adar argues that Europe should not turn a blind eye to the repression of dissent.
After a rough period, Ankara is making overtures to Brussels. Ilke Toygür discusses the prospects, the need for the EU to clarify its own position, and the implications of the election of Joe Biden.
Militarization of Foreign Policy and Power Rivalry
doi:10.18449/2020C62
With his announcement that the Hagia Sophia will be reconverted into a mosque, Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan is seeking to foment identity conflict for political gain. Thus far, the opposition has avoided the trap and declined to enter this fight. Salim Çevik argues that Europe should do the same.
doi:10.18449/2020C22
From Syria to the Eastern Mediterranean and Libya
doi:10.18449/2020C06
Despite its recent threats, Ankara is signalling interest in cooperating on migration governance. In the likely continuation of the Statement, the EU should link the implementation of the Statement to issues of rule of law. An Assessment by Sinem Adar
doi:10.18449/2019C31
