Misguided Alliances: The Danger of Western Support in Turkey
If you’ve been keeping up with the news, you’ve likely seen the alarming situation in Turkey, where the government is cracking down on democratic freedoms and jailing opposition figures.
According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Turkey is the 10th worst jailer of journalists (2023), and has repeatedly held the title of worst jailer of journalists in previous years. This is a serious issue that needs attention. But rather than just restate the obvious moral outrage, I want to talk directly to the Western community and its institutions.
Are You Causing More Harm Than Good?
You might be wondering, “But we always stand up for democracy in Turkey! How could we possibly be doing harm?” Here’s the catch: while the intentions may be good, the impact of Western actions can actually backfire and hurt Turkish democracy more than help it.
Consider the role of organizations like the U.N., NATO, and countries such as France and the US. While they aim to support democracy, their backing of Kurdish groups in Syria, who are seen by many Turks as a threat to national security, complicates this support.The Cyprus conflict also highlights this complexity.
The 1974 military intervention created lasting divisions, with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) often left without international recognition. Both Turkish and Greek Cypriot perspectives are necessary to grasp the full scope of the issue.
Turkey’s journey toward joining the European Union has been anything but smooth.Having been a candidate for EU membership for over 20 years, support for membership among Turkish citizens has plummeted from around 70% in the early 2000s to just 29%. This detachment contributes to strained relations between Turkey and the West, impacting how Turkish voters view the West overall.
Now, think about the average Turkish voter. They’re concerned about their country’s image and security. When Western countries support groups perceived as threats to Turkey, it sends a message that the West disapproves of their country. So, when Western actors endorse a democratic candidate—like Ekrem İmamoğlu—many voters see that with skepticism. They might think,“If they’re supporting him, he must be corrupt or not truly on our side.”This perception can push undecided voters away from supporting candidates who genuinely want to uphold democratic values. Instead of helping these candidates, Western endorsements can provide the current regime with reasons to dismiss them as untrustworthy.The West’s inconsistent policies have also fostered a growing sense of mistrust and unpredictability among Turkish citizens. Over the last couple of decades, different administrations in the West have shifted their stance, which has left many Turks feeling uncertain about the West’s commitment to democracy in their country.This sentiment has been exacerbated by the European Union’s recent rapprochement with Erdoğan’s government, notably in discussions surrounding trade and refugee agreements. Similarly, the Trump administration’s 2018 Syrian intervention showcased a pragmatic shift, prioritizing strategic alliances over democratic ideals. These developments highlight a troubling trend where geopolitical interests appear to outweigh the foundational principles of democracy, further complicating the relationship between Turkey and the West.
Responsibility
I want to be clear: the challenges facing Turkey are largely due to the choices made within the country itself and the values of its voters. I’m not here to blame the West outright. However, we must recognise that when Western countries act with bias or fail to consider the historical context, their efforts to promote democracy can be misconstrued as attacks on Turkish interests, making things worse.
A Way Forward
So, what’s the solution? It’s essential for Western institutions to rethink their strategies in Turkey. Engaging in a way that respects Turkish history and interests can help foster a more productive dialogue. For instance, recognizing the role of civil society and independent media in advocating for democracy in Turkey can provide a more local perspective that counters foreign influence narratives.
In addition, Western nations should consider the economic ties they share with Turkey. Turkey is a significant trade partner for the EU, and other Western countries. Healthy economic relationships can lead to greater stability and understanding. For Turkish voters, focusing on unity and strength, especially when faced with external pressures, is crucial for shaping a positive democratic future.
Ultimately, a healthy relationship between Turkey and the West can lead to mutual respect and understanding, paving the way for a stronger and more resilient democracy in Turkey.
It’s worth striving for.