AKP and the Idea of the Turkish Model (2002-14): A Longitudinal Analysis

Abstract

This article examines the evolution of the idea of the Turkish model as constructed by academics from the West, the Muslim world and Turkey during the three consecutive terms of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) rule in Turkey. It focuses on the changing political landscape of Turkey, the Middle East and the world at large during post 9/11 years and the emerging issues and debates around the idea of this model. Based on a careful selection and examination of 145 academic articles on the model published during the extended rule of AKP in Turkey (2002-14), the study illustrates that the term „Turkish model‟ has held disparate meanings and generated diverse debates overtime. The growing political unrest, suppression and violence in and around Turkey during the third phase of AKP rule (2012-14) has significantly undermined the idea which lately held great appeal in the West as well as the Muslim world.