Insight Turkey / issues

Editor's Note | Fall 2023

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 2:15:00 GMT

As we bid farewell to another eventful year, we are thrilled to present this latest issue of Insight Turkey, enriched with six thought-provoking commentaries and six in-depth research articles. Each piece has been carefully selected to enhance and diversify our coverage, providing our readers with a multifaceted and profound understanding of the various topics discussed. It is our earnest hope that this issue not only enlightens but also engages our readers in meaningful reflection and dialogue, furthering the pursuit of knowledge and understanding in these dynamic times.

Azerbaijan and the Rise of Turkic Unity: The Journey of the Organization of Turkic States

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 23:32:00 GMT

This commentary delves into the evolution of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), highlighting its transformation from a consultative mechanism to a robust international entity with geostrategic significance. The paper examines key developments such as the Shusha Declaration, the impact of the Second Karabakh War, and the strategic partnership among Turkic states in the context of global geopolitical dynamics. The paper focuses on Azerbaijan’s vision of the development of the Turkic unity, some historical aspects, which preceded the idea of the Turkic unity, and contemporary trends in the regional and global politics, which gave impetus to the enhancement of the OTS. The conclusion highlights the importance of Turkic unity as it stands out more prominently in the complex geopolitical environment and posits that trends make it necessary to strengthen and develop cooperation among the Turkic states.

Kazakhstan’s Strategic Priorities in the Turkic World

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 23:39:00 GMT

With its unwavering focus on institutionalizing cooperation within the Turkic World, Kazakhstan has successfully achieved to improve institutional relations with the Turkic states. Looking ahead, Kazakhstan recognizes the strategic significance of its engagement with the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member states, navigating the intricate balance of geopolitical challenges and opportunities. This commentary aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the evolving trends in cooperation and outline Kazakhstan’s strategic priorities in the short and medium term. The author suggests that Turkic nations are likely to collaborate in trade, transport, and high-tech ventures and tackle common issues, notably water resource management. This evidences the pivotal role of OTS in creating the essential geopolitical balance within Kazakhstan’s intricate web of institutional connections.

Uzbek-Turkish Strategic Partnership in the Context of Geopolitical Turbulence in Central Asia

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 23:44:00 GMT

Central Asia has long captured the attention of global and regional powers due to its abundant natural resources, strategic location, potential for economic development, transportation, logistics, and connectivity. Simultaneously, global and regional actors have intensified their engagement in the geopolitics of the Central Asian region. Under these circumstances, strengthening a comprehensive strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Türkiye is essential to maintaining the geopolitical balance of power in the region and effectively addressing the common challenges of sustainable development. The commentary is devoted to studying the current bilateral and multilateral relations between Uzbekistan and Türkiye in the context of ongoing geopolitical turbulence and shifts at the global and regional levels.

Shaping Eurasia’s Future: The Evolving Role and Impact of the Organization of Turkic States

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 23:54:00 GMT

This commentary provides a comprehensive analysis of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), tracing its evolution from the dissolution of the Soviet Union to its recent summits. Specifically, it discusses the establishment of the OTS, its institutionalization, and its role in regional and international politics. Furthermore, this analysis delves into the organization's evolution, project execution, and growing regional and global impact, with a particular emphasis on the OTS' commitment to cooperation and solidarity among Turkic states.

The Right of Return: The Only Future for Palestine

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 0:59:00 GMT

Since the October 7, 2023, the world has been deeply affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, resulting in the tragic loss of countless innocent lives. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the current situation in Gaza, it is imperative to delve into its historical roots. This commentary offers a meticulous and critical examination of the Palestinian Nakba and the enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It underscores the profound and lasting repercussions of historical events such as the Balfour Declaration and the British Mandate on Palestine, shedding light on the profound displacement and suffering endured by the Palestinian population. Furthermore, this commentary advocates for the fundamental right of Palestinian refugees to return to their homeland, presenting it as a pivotal element in the path towards conflict resolution and lasting peace. Lastly, it scrutinizes the roles played by international powers and their policies, highlighting their impact on perpetuating the conflict.

Operation al-Aqsa Flood: A Rupture in the History of the Palestinian Resistance and Its Implications

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 1:05:00 GMT

This paper argues that the al-Aqsa Flood operation launched by the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades –the military wing of Hamas– on the morning of October 7 has led to a psychological and epistemological rupture in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and Middle East politics as the operation marked a paradigm shift in the philosophy of the resistance. The infiltration of al-Qassam into the occupied territories by land, sea, and air was a clear sign of a change in the strategy of the resistance to continue the active struggle against the aggressive expansionism and aggression of the Zionist Israeli government. In this context, the study tries to frame Operation al-Aqsa Flood and analyze the dimensions of the rupture. Besides this, it will also outline the possible impact of the operation on global and regional politics, considering that the ongoing process will change the political balance in the Middle East.

The Organization of Turkic States and Postcolonialism in Central Asia: Possible Contributions, Prospects, and Limitations

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 1:11:00 GMT

This paper explores the Organization of Turkic States’ (OTS) support in aiding Central Asian republics to address their historical legacies, focusing on the period following Russian influence from the 18th century. Employing a postcolonial theoretical lens, it examines the post-independence phase of these republics, highlighting the OTS’ role in promoting regional cooperation, cultural revitalization, and social unity. The paper discusses the challenges faced by these nations in various sectors such as economics and linguistics, assessing the OTS’ capacity to support their development, given its resources and relative position amidst other significant regional entities. Additionally, it delves into broader regional developmental strategies and their implications for the OTS’ objectives. The paper underscores the importance of strategic autonomy for Central Asia in the context of evolving regional dynamics. It concludes by recognizing the OTS’ potential in contributing to the region’s progress, presenting a comprehensive view of the intricate regional landscape and the OTS’ part in fostering growth and development in Central Asia.

Potential of Organization of Turkic States in the International System: Promises and Vulnerabilities

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 1:16:00 GMT

This article examines the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in the context of the complex geopolitical landscape of Central Asia and the Caucasus. It aims to assess its potential in economic, strategic, and social dimensions within international and regional systems. Employing an eclectic theoretical framework, this study looks at the multifaceted factors that influence the OTS’ potential to foster cooperation and solidarity among Turkic states. The research examines this mechanism in interconnected strategic, economic, and social structures. The strategic dimension encompasses defense alliances and security arrangements, the economic dimension focuses on cooperation and trade, and the social dimension emphasizes cultural and normative aspects. Overall, one of the most important rationales behind the OTS is the idea that it serves as a cohesive force enabling Turkic states to navigate the intricate geopolitical environment of Central Asia and the Caucasus where multiple great powers are vying for influence. This research sheds light on the nuanced interplay of economic, strategic, and soft power activities, providing valuable insights into the OTS’ position and influence in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Aside from its contribution to the literature, this article also aims to assist policymakers wishing to explore the potential and limitations of OTS’ increasing influence.

Security Aspect of the Integration in Turkic World under the Organization of Turkic States

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 1:25:00 GMT

The Turkic states began their collaboration in 1992. Over time, this cooperation has grown deeper, resulting in the establishment of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), which has evolved into a comprehensive international organization. The member states of OTS have expressed their commitment to pursuing coordinated policies on security matters that are of mutual interest. As a result, the security dimension has become increasingly prominent within the multidimensional areas of cooperation within OTS in recent years. In light of this, the present study aims to explore the positive outcomes of enhanced and fortified security collaboration among Turkic states under the umbrella of OTS. Specifically, the study will focus on systemic security, regional security, and key security issues such as counter-terrorism and military capacity, shedding light on the potential benefits derived from these collaborative efforts.

The Paradoxical Role of Mediators in the Armenia-Azerbaijan Conflict: Prospects and Concerns

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 1:32:00 GMT

This paper explores the underlying factors that pushed Russia, the European Union (EU), Türkiye, and somehow the U.S. to offer mediation to settle the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The eruption of the fierce clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia ended the war that happened in 2020 when Russia brokered the ceasefire. However, Russia’s war in Ukraine was signaling renewed fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh. Hence, some actors started to step into the hostility to facilitate diplomatic efforts to lower the temperatures of the conflicting parties. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan made a military assault on Artsakh in 2023 and gained a final victory over Nagorno-Karabakh. Amid tension, the EU, Russia, and Türkiye will hold a responsible role and bring hopes that diplomacy may bring Azerbaijan and Armenia closer to peace, and an eventual settlement will ensue. The research demonstrates that a new geopolitical change has been taking place in the South Caucasus region, which is causing complexities amid some options set by the mediators.

Israel’s Fateful March: From Settler Colonialism to Genocidal State

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 2:04:00 GMT

This article delves into the legal discussions surrounding the crisis unleashed by the military operation launched on October 7, 2023, in Southern Israel by Palestinian forces of the resistance based in Gaza. Israel considered this a “terrorist attack,” asserted the right of self-defense, declared war on Gazans, and started the continuous and indiscriminate bombardment of Gaza. As a result, Gaza has become the new Dresden, in which thousands have been killed and tens of thousands injured. This article is an attempt to answer the following questions to illuminate the legal issues surrounding the current crisis and the broader context of Israel’s legal status as a state and its territorial claims: Was the Palestinian offensive in Southern Israel an instance of terrorism and/or an act of aggression? Which side of the conflict can rightfully claim the right of self-defense? Did Israel commit genocide in Gaza? Do Israel’s statehood and territorial claims rest on firm legal grounds? Is it legally sensible to argue that Israel is a threat to international peace and security?

The Role of Energy in Türkiye-Russia Relations: A View from the Perspective of Mutual Dependence

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 2:08:00 GMT

Policies focusing on strategic energy resources play a key role in achieving certain goals of states by integrating them with other areas. Considering the opportunities and threats associated with energy resources, the energy problem may be perceived as a chronic ailment that is difficult to solve for some states. It is also a fact that these resources increase the dependence of states. Energy is seen as a factor that forms the basis of interdependence in Turkish-Russian relations. With the increase in Türkiye’s energy needs, its energy relations with Russia have gained great importance in the 21st century. Russia, with its rich energy resources, plays an important role in Türkiye’s energy supply, and Türkiye is an important market for Russia’s energy exports. This study analyses the energy relations between Türkiye and Russia within the framework of interdependence theory. Despite the tensions in the political arena, energy relations have been and continue to be conducted according to the principle of interdependence. The study introduces the interdependence theory and analyses the energy policies and energy situation of Türkiye and Russia in detail.

Turkish and Hungarian Turanism against Russia in the Post-Cold War Era: Nostalgia Revisits Central Asia

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 21:40:00 GMT

This review article is based on three books: Starting with Von Eschen a professor of history at the University of Virginia in Virginia U.S. who has already published extensively on U.S. diplomacy, culture, and decolonization. Her book, Paradoxes of Nostalgia: Cold War Triumphalism and Global Disorder since 1989, could be considered as the summary of her typical interest field. In this book, Von Eschen displayed a strong critical stance towards Fukuyama’s “The End of History” thesis. According to Von Eschen, the early celebrations of the U.S.’ so-called victory with the end of the Cold War pushed U.S. foreign policy to take a ‘blind’ stance towards new trends in the international system.

Hamas Contained: The Rise and Pacification of Palestinian Resistance

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 10:52:00 GMT

Tareq Baconi focuses on Hamas as one of the major actors and most active ones in military resistance against occupation in the Palestinian case in his Hamas Contained book. Baconi, thus, avoids the emphasis on terrorism discourse and presents Hamas’s social and political aspects. The author aims to understand the evolution Hamas has undergone from its foundation in 1987 as a revolutionary armed movement seeking the liberation of historic Palestinian territories to contained governance in Gaza in 2017. To do so, the author interviewed the movement leaders and utilized published and unpublished written, oral, and visual resources about Hamas. The book contains six chapters and a critical conclusion. The authors’ voice emerges only in the conclusion, as the first six chapters are Hamas’s narrative through the interviews and other documents.

Ordering Violence: Explaining Armed Group-State Relations from Conflict to Cooperation

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 11:12:00 GMT

Overall, this book presents a holistic and comprehensive perspective of armed orders in South Asia from a historical perspective. The book has a state-centric perspective giving the state a central role. Along with the theoretical background, the book’s statistical method makes the research powerful since the book utilizes a new dataset to explain the armed orders. However, the measurement and reliability of datasets in conflict studies is one of the main challenges, as is the case in the book as well. In this sense, the dataset may be strengthened by new variables to comprehend the real nature of armed politics in South Asia.

Russia Rising: Putin’s Foreign Policy in the Middle East and North Africa

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 11:47:00 GMT

Overall, the book under review provided fruitful discussions thanks to distinguished experts. It is helpful for policymakers and analysts to understand Russian policy in the Middle East and North Africa region and provides a basic background for academics on the given topic. In addition, mentioning the Soviet Union’s Middle East and North Africa policy has also given the reader a general insight into whether there is continuity or change in the Russian Federation’s policies in Middle East and North Africa apart from the Soviet Union.

The Russian Military Intervention in Syria

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 12:01:00 GMT

The book is an important study as it deals with how international peace and security cannot be achieved since states act in their own interests. Moreover, it reveals once again that states must agree on solving problems under international law. The scope of the study was constrained by the author’s discussion of the foreign policies that heads of state have adopted from the Boris Yeltsin era to the present, as well as Russia’s actions in the Middle East and the former Soviet Republics.

Russia in Africa: Resurgent Great Power or Bellicose Pretender?

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 12:08:00 GMT

This well-researched book offers an in-depth examination of Moscow’s activities on the continent. Similarly, it gives helpful insights into the resurgence of interests in the new scramble for Africa, which many have likened to the first scramble in 1884.1 In the final parts, the author discusses the developments following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, arguing that Russia’s success on the continent will be limited due its lack of enough resources to compete with its peers. However, the continent will be an easy alternative for Russia to compete with the West and the U.S. Given that Moscow is so effective at counterbalancing Western hegemony and particularly American hegemony and because it thrives where chaos exists. It presents itself to authoritarian coup plotting generals and leaders in Africa as a trustworthy ally that can easily defeat extremists and political opponents (pp. 327).

China’s Rise in the Global South: The Middle East, Africa, and Beijing’s Alternative World Order

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 12:18:00 GMT

One aspect that makes the study significant is that the book examines the subject comprehensively with more than 200 interviews and original documents. This work has become much more valuable as primary sources support it. The book also includes shaping China’s behavior in the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa with a threat perception, apart from just interests. It has been evaluated that it moves away from the national system, exhibits a competitive attitude in places where the external threat is high, and has a cooperative attitude in places where the external threat is low. At the same time, when its interests advance in parallel with the norms of the liberal order, it gains influence by competing in the region with political, economic, and foreign aid tools. However, it does not want to get involved in any unilateral military operation, especially in problematic areas. While the order that China has built in the regions generally tends to include economic, political, and foreign aid, it does not fully cover security institutions. These evaluations are a positive contribution to the academic literature and a guide for future studies.

Neoliberalism and Unequal Development: Alternatives and Transitions in Europe, Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 12:29:00 GMT

Although the topics are handled regionally, the book makes a wide contribution to the literature since the effects of neo-liberalism; globalization and supranational powers are similar worldwide. Some of the development policies associated with the issues were carried out in the past, but both the continuation of their effects and the fact that similar policies are still imposed on different countries keep the discussions up to date. Moreover, the book is written in an easy-to-understand language, with definitions of neo-liberalism given in detail in the preface. Positive and negative criticisms of neo-liberalism are explained in its historical context and national and international agreements made with neo-liberal policies are revealed. These features of the book are very beneficial to those who are not familiar with the subject.

Globalisation Impacts: Countries, Institutions and COVID-19

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 14:12:00 GMT

Comprehensively, the strength of the book is the depth of its historical excavation and the synchronization of relevant literature on globalization. It addresses the neo-liberal notion as one of the main flaws in the widely accepted process of globalization and argues that the higher welfare across cultures and communities will result from the dissolution of the state and the continuation of markets. But this book provides very limited counter on this which need to be explained in detail. Overall, it is an interesting scholarly piece, which attempts to fill the gap that scholars have rarely attempted and offers a clarifying lens for understanding this critical and multifaceted concept. Therefore, the book is an important contribution to the study of political economy and is of interest to academic scholars and policymakers alike.

Islam and Capitalism in the Making of Modern Bahrain

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 14:21:00 GMT

The book covers the period of the currently ruling al-Khalifa dynasty since 1783. The emphasis is upon the economic conditions in the island state. Bahrain’s economy underwent two major transitions during this period. The first was the decline of the long-established pearl fisheries and their replacement by oil extraction during the 1930s. As Bahrain’s rather scant oil resources started to become depleted by the 1970s, its economy went through a second transition and diversified, turning the island state into a financial hub.

Myanmar’s Fragmented Democracy: Transition or Illusion?

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 14:30:00 GMT

Myanmar’s Fragmented Democracy: Transition or Illusion? by Felix Thiam Kim Tan is a valuable contribution to the study of Myanmar’s political transition. The author’s insightful analysis, supported by empirical evidence and thorough research, sheds light on the complexities, challenges, and opportunities that Myanmar faces in its pursuit of democratic governance. The book offers a nuanced understanding of Myanmar’s political institutions, ethnic dynamics, and the role of external actors. Despite some limitations, Tan’s work provides an essential resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Myanmar’s democratic journey.