Major social and political issues

Major Social and Political Issues in Turkey

Political Changes and Reforms

  • The shift from a parliamentary system to a presidential system in 2018 has significant impacts on the structure and operation of political power in Turkey.
  • The role of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) and its policies in shaping modern Turkey cannot be underemphasised.
  • Focus on the political implications of the failed coup attempt in July 2016, including subsequent purges and the state of emergency declared afterwards.

Social Changes and Influences

  • The growing youth population in Turkey provides potential for innovation and economic growth, but also requires attention on issues such as employment and education.
  • The influence of religion in social life and politics is a notable aspect of Turkish society, including the role of the Diyanet (Directorate of Religious Affairs).
  • The impact of urbanisation in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara, which relates to infrastructure development, housing and environmental concerns.

Minority Rights and Civil Liberties

  • Pay attention to the situation of the Kurdish community regarding language and cultural rights, and their political representation.
  • Scrutinise the rights and issues faced by other minorities such as the Alevis, the largest non-Sunni Muslim community in Turkey.
  • Examine the ongoing issues related to freedom of expression in Turkey, including restrictions on the media and imprisonment of journalists.

Gender Equality and Human Rights

  • Observe the state of women’s rights in Turkey, including areas like political representation, education, employment and gender-based violence.
  • The status of LGBTQ+ rights and challenges faced by the community merit attention in the wider human rights context.
  • Focus on human rights concerns such as detention without trial, torture allegations, and the extensive use of anti-terrorism laws to suppress dissent.

Migration, Refugees and Integration

  • Consider Turkey’s role as the largest host of refugees worldwide, predominantly from Syria, and the related challenges and policy approaches.
  • Analyse how migration within and through Turkey influences domestic and foreign policy.
  • Observe the efforts for the integration of refugees into Turkish society such as language, education and employment support.