The politics behind Turkey’s pivotal election

The politics behind Turkey’s pivotal election

Author: The Watson School May 24, 2023 Duration: 33:58
Trending Globally: Politics and Policy
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On May 14, 2023, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan faced the most challenging test of his political career from a multi-party coalition led by social democrat and reformer Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu. The diverse coalition Kılıçdaroğlu represents, known as the Table of Six, is united by one cause: removing Erdogan from power and ending the country’s authoritarian turn. 

The challengers were optimistic, given the multiple crises facing Turkey that Erdogan has struggled to manage: rampant inflation, mass migration of refugees from the Syrian Civil War, and last February’s devastating earthquake.  

Despite these challenges, Erdogan did better than many expected and pushed the election to a runoff, which is set to be held on May 28. 

At stake, according to Kılıçdaroğlu and his supporters, is nothing less than democracy itself in Turkey. 

On this episode, Dan Richards and Center for Middle East Studies postdoctoral scholar Fulya Pinar speak with experts on the ground in Turkey about the stakes of this election and why the race is so incredibly close. They also explore how anti-immigrant politics is driving many Turkish voters in a way it never before has, with ramifications that will extend far beyond this election. 

Learn more about Fulya Pinar’s research on the experience of undocumented immigrants in Turkey 

Guests on this episode: 

  • Mert Moral, assistant professor of political science at Sabanci University.
  • Ali Fisunoglu, assistant professor of political science at St. Luis University
  • Deniz Sert, professor of political science at Ozyegin University.

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From the Watson School at Brown University, Trending Globally: Politics and Policy brings the insights of leading scholars and practitioners directly into your ears. This award-winning podcast digs into the complex forces shaping our world, moving beyond headlines to understand the deeper political and policy decisions behind them. Each conversation is designed to unpack a pressing issue-whether it's international trade tensions, public health crises, or social movements-with clarity and depth. You'll hear experts from the Watson Institute and beyond explain not just what's happening, but why it matters and how different policies might change the course of events. The discussions are grounded in rigorous research yet remain accessible, turning daunting global topics into understandable and engaging dialogue. For anyone curious about the mechanics of power, governance, and societal change, this series offers a vital resource. It’s a direct line to some of the sharpest minds in international and public affairs, all within a format that fits into your daily routine. Find Trending Globally: Politics and Policy and add it to your listening rotation for a consistently informative perspective on the stories that define our time.
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