ABSTRACT
Bridging Europe and Asia, Turkey has been integral to global politics for centuries, but never more so than in recent times, with the onslaught of a radically shifting political environment and wildcard eventualities such as global terrorism. Facing a shifting internal paradigm, as Kemal Ataturk’s vision becomes less apparent and its bastions in the defence staff less influential, Turkey is struggling to maintain a hold on its ideals as a secularist, democratic nation that can face the threat of a domestic insurgency. Additionally, 20 years ago it was clear where Western policy lay in conjunction with Turkey and vice versa, but in the post-Cold War environment—where old allies have become dispensable—Turkey has found itself re-addressing its strategic alliances. Turkey is acutely aware of its strengthened position as a leading global actor; it is this position that is enabling Turkey to look elsewhere for support and away from its traditional moorings. This chapter will consider the historical dynamic of Turkey’s security and the domestic challenges that Turkey has faced in the new era, and then examine how Turkey’s security is placed in the international setting and how it is responding to its realignment in global affairs.
