A near-decade of rule by strategic, business-friendly, moderate Islamists has transformed Turkey’s political dynamics. Now, the prospect of a third successive electoral victory seems to offer the Justice & Development Party (AKP) a chance to consolidate its hegemony over the once entrenched milita
The prospect of Turkish membership of the European Union looks more remote than ever. But neither Europe’s infirmity nor Turkey’s widening horizons need be the end of the story. A revived relationship based on mutual benefit remains possible, says Nora Fisher Onar.
Turkey’s ambition of becoming a regional power with global relevance is reflected in the domestic and foreign policy of its confident political elite. But changing realities at home and abroad present new problems, says Ivan Krastev. In particular, the Arab democracy wave exposes the limits of Tur
Another epic political moment in Turkey confirms that the country is changing. But in which direction, asks Bill Park.
The popular endorsement of constitutional amendments is a small but positive step towards Turkey’s democratisation, says Gunes Murat Tezcur.
The new chill between once close middle-eastern neighbours reflects both Ankara’s desire to chart a new course and structural changes in the region’s geopolitics. The outcome of both shifts remains open, says Kerem Oktem. (This article was first published on 10 December 2009)
Israel’s assault on a flagship attempting to break the blockade of Gaza has sparked international condemnation. Behind the crisis lie deeper shifts in world politics in which Turkey is playing a key part.
The tripartite nuclear-fuel agreement signed in Tehran is a watershed in the emerging configuration of a multipolar world, says Mariano Aguirre of the Norwegian Peacebuilding Centre.
Turkey’s new regional confidence appears to make the problems in its accession to the European Union less significant. But the linkage is more complicated, says Katinka Barysch.
An epic military, political, and security scandal continues to absorb Turkey. The affair's latest bizarre sub-plots make the tensions between the country's “deep state” and its constitutional order even more acute, says Bill Park.
South and North Korean ships clash off west coast. Iran charges US hikers with espionage. Japan promises $5 bn aid package for Afghanistan. Somali pirates expand operations. Fort Hood gunman linked to Al Qaeda. All this and much more, in today’s security update...
