Universitas Indonesia Conferences, The Seventh International Conference on Strategic and Global Studies 2023

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TÜRKIYE'S POSITION IN THE GEOPOLITICAL GREAT POWERS COMPETITION
Siti Rohaya, Henny Saptatia Drajati Nugraha

Last modified: 2023-05-05

Abstract


This research aims to explore Turkiye’s capacity to maintain its strategic position in the European region and enhance its influence in the global political arena, especially during the time of great powers rivalries. The world is currently facing a turbulent situation due to great power competition centered on a moment of major change in the global order. The divisions resulting from the Russia-Ukraine war and competition between the great powers questioned Türkiye's position. As a country with a strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean region, Türkiye plays its important roles both in regional and global order. The focus of this research is on Türkiye’s initiatives and strategies as a mediator in the process  between Russia and Ukraine, as well as Türkiye's responses to the effects of polarity and geopolitical dynamics arising from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This study utilizes qualitative methods which is enriched with data obtained through literature review from relevant studies. This research is conducted using the perspectives of Copenhagen School and English School. The preliminary results of this study indicate that Türkiye can strengthen its geopolitical position and can even increase its credibility as a guarantor of an effective and independent regional order. Previously, Türkiye's strategic actions as an intermediary between Russia and Ukraine at least increased Türkiye's capacity in international affairs which encouraged Türkiye's more inclusive position in regional security. The current turbulent world is one of Türkiye's international concerns, even though it is quite difficult for Turkey to resolve polemic issues. Turkiye’s geopolitical and geostrategic position can be an opportunity for Türkiye to improve its position among the great power countries, and Türkiye can exercise its influence in the global order.

Keywords: Türkiye, Geopolitic, Geostrategic, Great Power, Competition, Global Order