The Illicit Economy in Turkey: How Criminals, Terrorists, and the Syrian Conflict Fuel Underground Markets

This book provides an in-depth analysis of the transnational expansion of the illicit economy in Turkey, including smuggling of pharmaceuticals, oil, antiquities, drugs, nuclear materials, and cigarettes. It explores the criminals, terrorists, money launderers, and corrupt politicians at the highest levels of the Turkish government, and the unintended consequences of corruption scandals, such as the purging of law enforcement and intelligence entities and growing political tensions with the United States.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

This book provides a unique insight into the transnational expansion and diverse facets of the illicit economy in Turkey, encompassing the smuggling of pharmaceuticals, oil, antiquities, drugs, nuclear materials, and cigarettes. Authors Mahmut Cengiz and Mitchel P. Roth offer a comprehensive analysis of the criminals, terrorists, money launderers, and corrupt politicians at the highest echelons of the Turkish government. They delve into the unintended consequences of corruption scandals, which have led to the purging of vital law enforcement and intelligence entities formerly tasked with countering terrorism and organized crime threats. Furthermore, these scandals have sparked escalating political tensions with the United States.

The authors shed light on the intricate networks of corruption that permeate various sectors of Turkish society, including the military, judiciary, and law enforcement agencies. They expose the involvement of high-ranking officials in illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and the smuggling of precious artifacts. The book also delves into the impact of these illicit activities on the Turkish economy, highlighting the loss of revenue, the erosion of public trust, and the potential for social unrest.

Furthermore, the authors examine the role of foreign actors in facilitating these illicit activities. They discuss the involvement of organized crime syndicates, drug cartels, and terrorist organizations in the Turkish market, highlighting the need for international cooperation in combating these threats. The book also raises important questions about the political and social dynamics in Turkey, exploring how corruption and organized crime have contributed to the country's declining democratic institutions and the rise of authoritarianism.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of the transnational expansion and diverse facets of the illicit economy in Turkey. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the criminals, terrorists, money launderers, and corrupt politicians at the highest levels of the Turkish government, it sheds light on the unintended consequences of corruption scandals and the need for international cooperation in combating these threats. The book also raises important questions about the political and social dynamics in Turkey and the role of foreign actors in facilitating these illicit activities.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498595063