It has been over 70 years since Turkey became a member of NATO. At that time, Turkish political leaders viewed NATO membership as a pivotal step in the broader process of Westernization for the country. This affiliation not only granted Turkey access to advanced US military equipment but also marked a shift from the previously employed Prussian military doctrine to a Western one.
Throughout the Cold War, Turkey’s NATO membership remained unquestioned, largely owing to its substantial military capabilities and its strategically advantageous geopolitical location. Turkey contributed significantly to NATO, particularly benefiting the United States. However, in recent times, Turkey’s allegiance to the alliance has come under scrutiny due to seemingly irrational reasons and motives. Calls for sanctions to compel Turkey to exit the alliance have even emerged.
Regrettably, the distinctive attributes that make Turkey a valuable ally are being overlooked. Turkey, by pursuing a policy that differs from other allies, has the potential to maximize the benefits it brings to the alliance. Yet, discussions and critiques often neglect these unique contributions in favor of focusing on divergent policies that, in reality, could enhance the overall strength and effectiveness of NATO.
Turkey as a Rising Soft Power Outside the Euro-Atlantic
The conclusion of the Cold War ushered in new opportunities for Turkey, particularly in advising former Soviet Turkic republics on their paths toward liberalization and democratization . While Euro-American actors faced challenges penetrating former Eastern Bloc nations due to prevalent anti-Western sentiments, Turkey’s rising soft power paved the way for Western allies to penetrate beyond the Iron Curtain
Turkey’s diplomatic influence transcends its borders, positioning it as a pivotal ally for the United States in tackling regional and global challenges. Whether through mediating Middle Eastern conflicts or engaging in diplomatic endeavors, Turkey bolsters American interests by fostering stability and promoting dialogue on the global stage.
Owing to Turkey’s commendable initiatives in Central Asia, numerous U.S. policymakers have heralded Turkey as a beacon of democracy for Middle Eastern nations. During the Arab Spring, many emerging regimes looked to Turkey’s model of a thriving Muslim democracy for inspiration.
In recent times, Turkey has expanded its influence in Africa, not only through humanitarian endeavors but also by bolstering regional countries’ resilience against terrorism. This “scramble for Africa” amplifies Turkey’s soft power, offering a counterbalance to Chinese dominance. Notably, American and French attempts to curtail Chinese and Russian influence in Africa have been hindered by the lingering vestiges of colonialism within African societies. Research indicates that Africans view Turkey favorably, predominantly due to its longstanding humanitarian and resilience-focused investments in the region.
Similarly, in the Balkans, Turkey’s influence in Northern Macedonia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Albania has been instrumental in preventing the rise of religious fundamentalism on European soil. Concurrently, Turkey’s constructive relations with Serbia contribute significantly to Balkan stability, particularly in Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Turkish Military’s Impact on Strengthening NATO
The Turkish military is recognized as the second-largest army within NATO, not only in terms of sheer numbers but also in its unparalleled combat experience. This expertise is evident in its innovative military tactics, integrating technological advancements. Notably, Turkey’s proficiency in urban warfare, showcased by its efforts to minimize civilian casualties in Northern Syria and domestically, has been instrumental in training allies and partner nations.
Moreover, insights gleaned from Turkey’s utilization of drone warfare during the Idlib Offensive have been instructive for nations like Ukraine, aiding them in leveraging drones against advancing Russian forces.
Turkey’s robust military-industrial complex not only facilitates its modernization efforts but also supports allied nations in enhancing their defense capabilities. In particular, Turkey has played a pivotal role alongside the United States in counterterrorism initiatives, notably combating entities like the Islamic State (ISIS) . This collaboration, marked by joint military operations and intelligence sharing, fortifies regional stability and bolsters global counterterrorism endeavors.
Geopolitically, Turkey’s strategic location is paramount for safeguarding U.S. interests in the Middle East and the Black Sea, as well as ensuring Israel’s security. U.S. military installations in proximity to Turkey afford the United States a strategic operational flexibility in the region. The Kurecik Radar Station, for instance, offers crucial defense capabilities against potential threats emanating from Russia and Iran.
Regarding NATO’s Black Sea strategy, the Montreux Convention stipulates that only Black Sea countries can maintain a naval presence in the region. Consequently, Turkey stands as NATO’s sole member with the potential to establish naval dominance in the Black Sea.
Turkey’s Image Challenging Against Unfair Criticism
Critics opposing Turkey’s NATO membership often capitalize on prevailing anti-Turkey sentiments. While many voice concerns about Turkey’s diverging foreign policy from the United States, it’s essential to note that nations like the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy also pursue distinct foreign policies aligned with their national interests. Turkey’s unique role and foreign policy stance offer Western allies an avenue to engage with the region through Turkey, without necessarily conflicting with U.S. vital interests.
Turkey’s acquisition of Russian S-400 missiles, risking its involvement in the F-35 project, may be seen as a misstep, especially when alternatives like the Aster Air Defense Missiles exist. However, this decision, while significant, doesn’t irrevocably jeopardize Euro-Atlantic security. Other U.S. allies have integrated Russian equipment into their defense systems without similar repercussions.
The U.S.’s choice of allies in Syria, particularly support for groups perceived as threatening to Turkey’s security, like the PKK (SDF), remains a contentious issue. While combating ISIS is crucial, supporting groups that might pose threats to Turkey’s stability is viewed skeptically by Turkish citizens. Turkey’s concerns stem from the potential for a PKK (SDF)-dominated Northern Syria to become a launchpad for attacks against its territory.
Evaluating Erdogan’s political trajectory suggests he operates more as a Machiavellian politician than a strict Islamist or far-right figure. In this light, his influence is not necessarily more concerning than established far-right leaders like Geert Wilders or Viktor Orban.
It’s evident that certain interest groups leverage Erdogan’s perceived shortcomings to manipulate U.S. public opinion and policymakers. While Turkish-American relations have experienced strains over time due to various political shifts, the strategic partnership remains resilient. Ultimately, while leaders like Erdogan may come and go, the enduring relationship between Turkey and the U.S. is vital. Prioritizing long-term strategic interests over fleeting concerns of external lobbies is prudent.
Emir A. Gurbuz is the managing partner at the Legart Law&Consultancy Firm in Istanbul. He is an expert in international law and serves as a board member for the Atlantic Treaty Association.
