The Impact of Identity on Turkey's Regional Policy in West Asia (2011-2023)

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Regional Studies, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Identity in Turkey's foreign policy has been shaped by the complex interplay of historical, cultural, and religious factors. This evolving identity has led to significant shifts in Turkey's international relations, particularly under the leadership of the Justice and Development Party (AKP). The AKP's foreign policy in Turkey has transitioned from traditional realist-Kemalist approaches toward an emphasis on identity and constructivist concepts rooted in Turkey's historical and identity-based depth. This article examines the influence of identity frameworks on Turkey's policies in the West Asian region, especially during the post-Arab Uprisings period from 2011 to 2023.

The study focuses on identity-related concepts such as Neo-Ottomanism, an affinity for the Muslim Brotherhood, Pan-Turkism, and the recent "Century of Turkey" vision. It analyzes how these ideologies have shaped Turkey's approach to forming alliances, managing regional conflicts, and expanding its influence. The central argument of this article is that these identity frameworks and concepts have driven Turkey to pursue its regional objectives through a constructivist lens in foreign policy, fostering partnerships based on shared religious and ethnic backgrounds, and presenting itself as the modern successor of the Ottoman Empire. Using a descriptive-explanatory method, this study offers insights into Turkey's strategic choices and the beliefs that have guided its actions in West Asia.

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Security Horizons

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 09 June 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 12 January 2025
  • Revise Date: 29 March 2025
  • Accept Date: 19 May 2025
  • Publish Date: 09 June 2025

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