Turkish democracy is at a turning point: The democratic opposition enjoys more popularity than ever before, and thousands have rallied behind them since the March 2025 arrest of Istanbul’s mayor. But the more President Erdoğan’s grip on power slips, the more repressive he becomes. Will democratic forces be able to triumph at the ballot box in the next general election, or will the country devolve into full-blown authoritarianism?
In the July issue of the Journal of Democracy, leading scholars explore the political struggle between Erdoğan and his opponents, and what it means for Turkey’s democratic future.
Secularism, Islamism, and the Future of Turkey
The political struggle between President Erdoğan and opposition leader Ekrem İmamoğlu is a fierce battle for the country’s democracy. But it goes deeper than that. It is also a struggle between Islamist and secularist visions of Turkey.
Ahmet T. KuruHow to Fight Turkey’s Authoritarian Turn
As President Erdoğan’s grip on power is slipping, his regime is turning more repressive. But Turkey may still avoid becoming a full-blown autocracy. The opposition is increasingly popular, and there remains a way to tilt the playing field to their advantage.
Berk Esen and Sebnem GumuscuTurkey’s Hard Road to Democratic Renewal
Turkey’s democratic future hinges on its opposition parties doing something few expected: winning elections in unfair conditions. Yet the opposition’s strong performance in local elections suggests that they may be putting together a winning formula for Turkey and beyond.
Ayça Alemdaroğlu, Toygar Sinan Baykan, Ladin Bayurgil, and Aytuğ ŞaşmazPlus:
How Erdoğan Rules Through Crisis
Turkey’s economic and political crises have only worsened, but the autocratic president remains in power. His secret? He uses the levers of the state to shield his supporters from harm, while punishing the rest.
Senem Aydın-Düzgit, Mustafa Kutlay, and E. Fuat KeymanHow Authoritarians Win When They Lose
Turkey’s ruling party has developed a new tool: When its local candidates lose, it dismisses them and appoints its own choice under a guise that maintains the veneer of democracy. It is an autocratic innovation that may soon spread.
Sultan Tepe and Ayça AlemdaroğluThe Pushback Against Populism: Running on “Radical Love” in Turkey
Is there a recipe for defeating a populist? A novel campaign strategy based on inclusion and public responsiveness may show how to beat the odds in a competitive authoritarian system.
F. Michael Wuthrich and Melvyn Ingleby
Subscribe here to have curated collections like this one and other Journal of Democracy news delivered directly to your inbox.
Image credit: KEMAL ASLAN/AFP via Getty Images