Turkey and European security institutions

Abstract

Turkey's relationships with the West, particularly its relationship with Western security institutions, are today more important than ever. As the United States fights two wars in the region and attempts to rebuild its reputation in Europe and the Middle East, Turkey is once again central to America's plans. Yet, this crucial ally is little understood by U.S. policy makers. Turkey has a long relationship with Euro-Atlantic security institutions, specifically NATO and the various European institutions, culminating in today's European Security and Defense Policy (ESDP). The following study poses the following questions of relevance to those interested in theory and policy. Why do the government and people of Turkey participate in these institutions? What long-term policy objectives do makers of policy in Turkey wish to advance through its participation in these institutions? What are the different ways that Turkey leverages its participation to advance its goals? Specifically, how does Turkey use its participation in European security institutions to advance its positions on issues such as European Union membership, defense modernization, and its ongoing internal and external areas of conflict? How does Turkey's Ottoman legacy affect these relationships and how has this historical background shaped today's events? This thesis also sets out to answer whether Turkey is successful in its participation; in other words, does its participation allow Turkey to advance its goals better? How do current trends in Europe affect Turkey's participation in these institutions?