From Hope to Authoritarianism: What Factors Led to the Decline of Democracy in Turkey?

Abstract

This essay examines the erosion of democracy in Turkey, challenging the common assumption that economic prosperity leads to the democratisation of national politics. The paper focuses on three key identifiers of Turkey’s democratic backsliding: weak democratic institutions, the political manipulation of financial crises, and the effective use of rhetoric to marginalise opposition.

Turkish President Erdoğan is a skilled politician who can manipulate his political environment to consolidate his hold on power. He is not unique in this regard. Turkey serves as a reminder to the world that democratic institutions can be gradually dismantled through the misuse of democratic processes. By examining Turkey’s recent political trajectory toward autocracy, the once assumed reality that economic prosperity brings political liberalisation is no longer guaranteed.

As democratic nations and their safeguards begin to buckle under mounting pressures, the consequences of institutional neglect and decay are serious. Ultimately, the Turkish case highlights the importance of safeguarding democratic norms, even in ostensibly stable and economically successful countries.