Today is the projection of our recent political history
Today is the projection of our recent political history
History is not only a record of the past, but a fundamental guide for building today and tomorrow. Political, economic and social developments do not come out of nowhere; each one is the result of steps taken, decisions taken and experiences lived in the past. Therefore, in order to understand today's world and where Turkey stands, it is indispensable to look at recent political history.
Turkey has always been at the center of international politics due to its geographical location and historical heritage. From the Ottoman Empire to the Republic, the state's efforts to preserve and strengthen its existence have been decisive in shaping modern Turkey. However, the real turning points are related to the changing balance of the post-Cold War world and how Turkey adapted to this change.
In the second half of the 20th century, Turkey was a country trying to navigate under the influence of global powers. Despite being part of the Western alliance, it faced serious obstacles to economic and political independence. Dependence on institutions such as the IMF and the World Bank, domestic political instability and military coups were among the factors that prevented Turkey from becoming a truly powerful state. Since the early 21st century, however, Turkey's economic and political transformation into a country that stands on its own two feet has accelerated.
The basic elements of being a strong state are an independent economy, a deterrent defense industry and an effective diplomacy. Turkey has made significant progress in these three areas, especially in recent years. The transition to domestic and national production in the defense industry, pursuing an active foreign policy in regional and global crises, and efforts to increase economic independence are all indicators of a strong state reflex. Today, there is a Turkey that exports in the defense industry, reduces foreign dependency through energy projects and defends its own theses in the international arena.
However, being a strong state is not limited to economic and military achievements. In order to have a say in the global order, national unity and solidarity must be built on solid foundations. Looking at our recent history, Turkey's struggle against internal and external threats reveals the importance of a strong state. The resilience shown in the face of coups, economic crises, the fight against terrorism and international pressure proves that Turkey has adopted a governance approach based on national will.
In today's world, competition between states is based not only on military and economic power, but also on political will and strategic wisdom. By making the best use of its geopolitical position and historical heritage, Turkey has the potential to move from being a regional power to a global actor in the future. Every step towards this is only possible by reading the past correctly and drawing lessons from it.
In conclusion, the opportunities and threats Turkey faces today are a reflection of the processes of the past. History becomes an advantage only for nations that analyze it correctly and use it to build the future. As long as Turkey fulfills the requirements of being a strong state, it will continue to have a say in global balances. Every development we experience today is actually a result of the struggle of yesterday and a guarantee for tomorrow.
HASAN YİĞİT