The Transformation of Kurdish and Islamist Parties in Turkey: Consequences for Regime Change

This book analyzes the transformation of ethnic and religious political parties in Turkey, focusing on their role in the country's democratization and regime changes. It treats the three national elections (2002, 2007, 2015-June) as opportunities for democratization, where the Islamist-successor AKP and the Kurdish-successor HDP managed to overcome identity politics and receive organized support from social groups outside of their traditional constituency. However, this opportunity can be missed if the party follows an office-seeking strategy rather than a policy-seeking one.

Format: Hardback
Length: 193 pages
Publication date: 17 July 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of ethnic and religious political parties in Turkey, shedding light on their pivotal role in the country's democratic transition and regime changes. Over the past two decades, Turkey has witnessed a significant shift towards autocracy under the ruling AKP government. Scholars are actively exploring the multifaceted factors that contributed to this trajectory, seeking to draw valuable lessons for other cases of democratic decline or breakdown. This book makes a valuable contribution to this ongoing debate. By examining the three national elections (2002, 2007, and 2015-June) as pivotal moments for democratization, the book highlights the successful efforts of the Islamist-successor AKP (in 2002 and 2007) and the Kurdish-successor HDP (in 2015-June) to transcend identity politics and garner organized support from social groups beyond their traditional constituencies.

The book argues that in a semi-democratic context where repressive acts of the state, such as banning parties and arresting politicians, have faced widespread public criticism, confronting the state becomes a pressing issue. When these parties skillfully frame this issue as one of democracy, they seize ownership of it, creating a significant opportunity for democratizing the regime. However, this opportunity can be missed if the parties prioritize office-seeking strategies over policy-seeking ones.

The book delves into the complex interplay between political parties, social groups, and the state, exploring how these actors shape the political landscape and influence democratic processes. It examines the strategies employed by these parties to appeal to diverse constituencies, navigate the challenges of electoral competition, and consolidate their power. The book also sheds light on the role of religion and ethnicity in Turkish politics, analyzing how these factors have influenced party formation, ideology, and policy choices.

Through its detailed analysis and insightful conclusions, this book provides valuable insights into the dynamics of political change in Turkey and offers valuable lessons for policymakers, scholars, and activists engaged in the pursuit of democracy and social justice in other contexts.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031062926
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022