AKP

Definition

The AKP, or Justice and Development Party, is a political party in Turkey founded in 2001 that has significantly shaped the country's political landscape. The party emerged from the remnants of Turkey's Islamist movement and adopted a more moderate approach to governance, focusing on democratic reforms, economic development, and a pro-European Union stance. Its rise to power has led to substantial shifts in Turkey's foreign policy and regional ambitions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AKP won its first general election in 2002, securing a majority and marking a significant change in Turkish politics by moving away from secularist parties.
2. Initially, the AKP emphasized a vision of 'conservative democracy,' aiming to reconcile Islamic values with modern democratic practices.
3. Under the AKP, Turkey experienced robust economic growth during its early years in power, leading to improvements in infrastructure and social services.
4. The party's foreign policy shifted over time from pro-Western alignment to a more independent stance, engaging with neighboring regions and pursuing influence in the Middle East.
5. Critics argue that the AKP has increasingly undermined democratic institutions and centralized power under Erdoğan's leadership, impacting civil liberties and press freedom.

Review Questions

• How did the AKP's approach to governance differ from previous political parties in Turkey?
  • The AKP's approach marked a departure from Turkey's traditional secularist parties by adopting a more moderate stance that incorporated elements of Islamism while promoting democratic reforms. Unlike previous parties that focused heavily on secularism, the AKP aimed to create a synthesis of Islamic values and democracy, appealing to a broader electorate. This shift allowed the AKP to connect with conservative voters while still advocating for economic growth and EU integration.
• Evaluate the impact of the AKP on Turkey's foreign policy, especially regarding its relationships with neighboring countries.
  • The AKP significantly transformed Turkey's foreign policy from one that was primarily pro-Western to one that sought greater regional influence. Initially emphasizing ties with Europe and the West, over time, the party pursued a more assertive role in Middle Eastern affairs, engaging with various actors across the region. This shift has led to both opportunities for enhanced regional diplomacy and challenges, including tensions with traditional allies.
• Analyze how the internal dynamics within the AKP have influenced its policies and overall governance in Turkey.
  • Internal dynamics within the AKP have played a critical role in shaping its policies and governance style. Over time, as Erdoğan consolidated power, there was a noticeable shift towards authoritarianism, impacting party cohesion and decision-making. Factionalism within the party has influenced key policies such as economic management and foreign relations. As Erdoğan moved towards an increasingly centralized leadership model, dissenting voices within the party were marginalized, leading to significant changes in governance that prioritize loyalty over democratic principles.

Related terms

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan: The founding leader of the AKP and Turkey's President since 2014, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the party's policies and the country's direction.

Islamism: A political ideology advocating for the implementation of Islamic principles in government and society, which has influenced the AKP's origins and policies.

Turkey-EU Relations: The complex and evolving relationship between Turkey and the European Union, significantly impacted by the AKP's pro-EU stance in its early years.