Erdogan, the Neo-Ottoman: Turkish Without the Delight
Apr 11, 2025
auto_awesome
Sinan Ciddi, a non-resident senior fellow at FDD and an associate professor at the Marine Corps University, sheds light on Turkey's complex identity and political landscape. He discusses Erdogan's shift from promising democratic reforms to embracing authoritarianism, highlighting public dissatisfaction and rising opposition. Ciddi delves into Turkey's historical tensions, particularly the Armenian genocide, and examines contemporary geopolitical dilemmas, including its ties with Hamas and military relations with NATO, offering a captivating insight into Turkey's evolving role on the world stage.
Turkey's identity is deeply influenced by its historical events, notably the transition from the Ottoman Empire to a secular modern state under Atatürk.
The Turkish military historically guaranteed secularism but faces debate about its political role, especially with Erdoğan’s diminishing secular influence.
Erdoğan's shift towards authoritarianism has not only undermined democracy domestically but also sought to reestablish Turkey's neo-Ottoman influence regionally, complicating international relations.
Deep dives
The Historical and Cultural Context of Turkey
Understanding Turkey's history is crucial for grasping its current political dynamics. The country's identity has been shaped by significant historical events, including the arrival of Turkic tribes in the 11th century and the establishment of the Ottoman Empire. This empire not only expanded across regions but also operated as a caliphate, blending religious and political authority. The aftermath of World War I and the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire led to the founding of modern Turkey under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who promoted secularism and a shift towards Westernization, fundamentally altering the nation’s trajectory.
The Role of the Military in Turkey's Secularism
The Turkish military has historically been viewed as a guarantor of secularism, a perception stemming from its roots in Atatürk's vision for Turkey. Some believe that civilian governments risk eroding this secular foundation, compelling the military to intervene in politics at various points. However, this has led to contentious debates within Turkish society, where some advocate for the military's withdrawal from politics, while others argue that its involvement is necessary to preserve the nation's secular character. The military’s influence has waned considerably, especially under President Erdoğan, leading to concerns about increasing religious conservatism.
Erdogan’s Shift from Democratic Promises to Authoritarianism
Initially viewed as a moderate, Erdoğan’s rise demonstrated a blend of democratic ideals and Islamic values, appealing to various segments of society. However, over time, his regime has shifted starkly towards authoritarianism, undermining democratic institutions and political opposition. His crackdown on dissent is exemplified by the imprisonment of prominent political figures, which has drawn parallels to dictatorial regimes. This evolution has triggered widespread public discontent, revealing a significant backlash against the erosion of democracy in Turkey.
The Geopolitical Ambitions of Erdoğan
Erdoğan's vision extends beyond Turkey's borders, with aspirations for a neo-Ottoman influence in the region, particularly in Syria. He has actively supported various militias aimed at establishing a regime that aligns with his Muslim Brotherhood worldview. This approach has not only endangered regional stability but also exacerbated tensions with neighboring states, including Israel. His strategic decisions reflect an underlying belief that Turkey can and should reclaim a dominant role in Middle Eastern affairs, despite the potential diplomatic repercussions.
Economic Decline and its Impact on Governance
Turkey is currently facing significant economic challenges, characterized by soaring inflation and a shrinking middle class, attributable to years of poor governance and corruption under Erdoğan's administration. The dramatic decline of the economy has intensified public frustration and dissatisfaction with the government, leading to growing demands for accountability. Various factors, including escalating debt and declining investor confidence, contribute to a volatile economic landscape that threatens stability. As socioeconomic conditions worsen, the political implications for Erdoğan's governance and future elections remain uncertain.
If you were to visit Turkey years ago, it might’ve felt both Middle Eastern and European. It was Muslim and secular. It was, more or less, free and democratic.
Host Cliff May says the food was great, too.
Now? Well, he’s told the food is still great.
To explain what has happened and what is happening in Turkey, Cliff is joined by his FDD colleague Sinan Ciddi.
About Sinan
Sinan is also an Associate Professor of National Security Studies at the Marine Corps University in Quantico. Earlier, Sinan was Executive Director of the Institute of Turkish Studies, based at Georgetown University. He continues to serve as an Adjunct Associate Professor at Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service. He received his doctorate from the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London. He’s the author of Kemalism in Turkish Politics: The Republican People’s Party: Secularism and Nationalism.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
