Routledge Turkey in the 21st Century: Quest for a New Foreign Policy

This unique book investigates the complex transformation of Turkey's foreign policy, focusing on changing threat perceptions and the reformulation of its Western identity. This transformation cannot be explained solely in terms of strategic choices or agency driven policies but encompasses power shifts and systemic transformations. Is Turkey shifting its axis? Will this affect its traditional Western-oriented foreign policy? The book begins by discussing the relationship between security and globalization, using examples of Turkey's regional positioning. It then focuses on to what extent the 'traditional' discourse on security in Turkish politics, which prevailed during the Cold War era and beyond, has undergone a change in the new era. This timely book is a much needed account of how pragmatism rather than ideology is the main determinant in Turkey's current foreign policy and should be read by all looking for a fresh and stimulating take on Turkey's response to globalization and the internationalization of security in the 21st Century. Review 'At a time of well-deserved Turkish ascendance, this book is a precious document that fathoms the strategic calculations behind the conduct of an assertive player. It is rich in data, has conceptual coherence, presents ample nuance and surveys the domestic discourses of Turkish foreign policy. The book is a valuable volume for those seeking insights about the emerging multi-polar international system.' Mahmood Sariolghalam, National University of Iran, Tehran 'The roots of the Ottoman legacy and the new identity of the Republican period are the main factors that inspire Turkish foreign policy today. A special interest in the problems of the Middle East on one hand, a close relationship with US and goal of EU membership on the other. The book, in my opinion, presents an excellent analysis of Turkish foreign policy through the lens of this dilemma.' Faruk Sönmezoglu, Istanbul University, Turkey 'This is an empirically rich collection based on a wealth of research by rising young Turkish scholars that brings the picture of Turkey's changing foreign policy thoroughly up to date. Analytically sophisticated and executed at the highest social science standards, each chapter systematically explains Turkey's policies toward a particular region in terms of international, regional and domestic forces. This is must reading for students of Turkey's foreign policy.' Raymond Hinnebusch, University of St Andrews, UK This important and timely collection of essays provides an excellent analysis of the major issues that explain the constantly evolving nature of Turkish foreign policy. Each essay helps readers understand to what extent Turkey's foreign has changed so far and might change in the future.' Mustafa Aydin, President of Kadir Has University, Turkey About the Author Özden Zeynep Oktav is Vice Dean of Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Associate Professor and Lecturer at Department of Political Science and International Relations, Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey.