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Theory and Practice of Terrorism
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Border Security Games
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At Large
Neo-Islam Stalls
Still, Turkey’s President is well-positioned to move his country further in the wrong direction.
It’s an odd thing about representative democracy; it sometimes can be responsible for becoming a pathway for varying forms of undemocratic rule. Turkey may be on the road to this end, but not quite yet.
This week’s election votes indicated the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) maintained its dominance over the Turkish parliament with 326 members — just short of the 330 required to put its reforms to a referendum — but a bit more under the super-majority 367 of 550 parliamentary votes necessary to amend the constitution in parliament. With the possible assistance of some minority party members, it is still possible to have the first major constitutional change since the 1980 military coup and its 1982 new constitution. This would alter the current parliamentary system to a presidential one. It would provide the current AKP leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with the chance to be president with full executive power and two five-year terms as a new and powerful head of state. One way or another, Erdogan will continue working to accomplish this.
More important than the actual numbers in the election is the proclivity of the neo-Islamist AKP to support the increasingly authoritarian actions of its principal leader. Erdogan has developed his popularity into an effective political weapon that has given the AKP the ability to ride roughshod over parliamentary procedures and dominate national politics. Sixty journalists are reported to be still in prison for deviating from an acceptable AKP line. Most importantly, Erdogan’s police force has jailed one out of every ten Army generals and broken the military’s long-standing legal control over Turkey’s secular governance as established by modern Turkey’s founder, Mustapha Kemal Ataturk.
There was a time when the combination of military and judiciary kept Turkey’s governance firmly in the hands of secular-guided parliamentary leadership framed by a Western-oriented constitution. Since 2002 the country has been run by the AKP. Even with the disappointing results of the election and delay of a new constitution, the party is now in a clear position of power over the military and judiciary. Erdogan has worked toward introducing a centrally dominant system that controls all external and internal security, effectively emasculating the political leverage of the armed forces.
As Erdogan and the AKP envision it, Turkey will no longer have a military that is the final arbiter of the politico/cultural direction of the country. A new constitution would be aimed to free the judiciary from the possibility of being subservient to the military. The tenets of Turkish interpretation of the Islamic faith will be the guiding spirit of the nation rather than the relatively high-minded but obscure reverence of secular standards as set forth nearly 90 years ago by Ataturk.
While Erdogan and his AKP party seek to project an image that has them ridding Turkey of military control and placing greater emphasis on the building of civilian infrastructure — hospitals, housing, transportation, etc. — the liberal elements of the nation find themselves isolated from the AKP mainstream. Ironically it has been the conservative secular inclination of the armed forces in the past that has maintained and protected liberal instincts and characteristics.
The outward trappings of Islam — especially as manifested by the ostentatious modesty in the dress of women — is perceived by the secularists as really a symbol of a backward political step. For the neo-Islamists who form the spine of Erdogan’s following, the return to purity and, indeed, superiority of their religion is matched by their perception of renewed Turkish strength.
Central Anatolia has become the dynamic heart of the AKP. Here the entrepreneurs of the middle class have combined their business acumen and religious conservatism into a decisive voting bloc for the AKP. Coincidentally with the rise of the AKP and Islamic recognition has been a surprising economic growth. It is this fact, more than any other single development, that has reinforced the AKP and Erdogan’s popularity. At the same time, the earlier preoccupation with acceptance by and entrance into the European Union has diminished in direct proportion to German and French objections.
For Turkey, non-acceptance by the European Union shows insulting disregard for a longtime NATO member’s desire to be recognized as one among equals. Discrimination is not unknown among the multifarious demographics of Turkey. Nonetheless, to be so openly rejected for membership into the “club” of the historically exclusive and Christian West is a matter of serious affront to a newly awakened Islamic Turkey.
For the West the growth of political Islam in Turkey touches nerves long since dulled by the fall of the Ottoman Empire. It’s not that the Turks became Western allies after Ataturk’s successful modernization. They were clearly pro-German during most of the Second World War, even though afterwards through NATO they became steady allies against Soviet expansion. Any future Western alliance, political and military, will be substantially impacted by what would appear to be Turkey’s growing fraternity with its Moslem brothers. This will change the entire Middle East equation. And of this Erdogan is more than aware.
About the Author
George H. Wittman writes a weekly column on international affairs for The American Spectator online. He was the founding chairman of the National Institute for Public Policy.
Michael Tomlinson| 6.17.11 @ 7:51AM
Western European countries need to begin deporting Turks now. They may have provided cheap labor in the past, but now they're foot soldiers of Islamic imperialism.
One also wonders why the Turkish military hasn't overthrown this gov't? Could it be like Egypt's military they like the idea of a resurgent and militant Turkey?
Seref Tasdemir| 6.22.11 @ 4:20AM
To Mr. Tomlinson,
Don't bother yourself about the Turks in Europe. They have been already returning from Europe (just check Spiegel.de) for finding better jobs & life in Turkey, after inhumanely discriminated long time in Europe.
Timothy L. Pennell| 6.17.11 @ 8:14AM
I've got NEWS for you. The STARS are aligning. The Prophesies are being fulfilled.
"And I saw the BEAST, rise from the Sea. And he was given a MOUTH, to speak Haughty and Blasphemous words. And he was allowed to exercise authority for forty two months." Revelation 13-5.
Now, WHO do we know, that fits this bill? Who do we know, with a MOUTH, and ONLY a Mouth, who speaks Haughty and Blasphemous words? And who is "ALLOWED" to exercise Authority for 42 Months? Nobody? What about 48 Months? What if, by June 2012, he is no longer there?
But, if he is the Beast, then who is the Anti-Christ? Who "PULLS THE STRINGS"?
If you look around the Obama Democrat Party, you will find the finger prints of GEORGE SOROS. A BILLIONARE, who makes his fortunes, by COLLAPSING the Currencies of Countries. around the world. A man with NO COUNTRY. (Just like Obama) A man who started his Life's Journey, helping the NAZIS, in their Extermination of the JEWS. Even though, HE, himself, was a JEW. When he was asked about this, he said that "It was the best time of my life".
HAMAS believes that OBAMA is their DELIVERER. Their Moses. They sell drinking Mugs, on their Web Site, with his picture on them. They have given him the name: ABU HUSSAIN.
IRAN is making Alliances with RUSSIA and CHINA. The last remnants of anything CLOSE to a Moderate Arab Nation, are falling like Dominoes. Israel is being SURROUNDED by her Enemies, who are PROMISING, that they are coming.
And it's all happened in just 2 1/2 Years. EVIL is on the march, because it KNOWS that it has an ALLY, on the Throne, in America. For the 1st time since her inception, ISRAEL has no ally in the World. She is alone.
Just as the BIBLE foretells.
I don't know about YOU. but, I'm getting prepared.
John| 6.17.11 @ 10:34AM
What a mean article. The Turks are a success story. Under the AkP turkey has prospered. It is a beacon for the Muslim and Arab world. It's importance will continue to grow in the coming decades. Turkey is proof that Islam and democracy are compatible. Those who insult the Turks for example by disrupting and murdering turkish humanitarian workers in international waters- better watch out. I'm definitely a fan.
Occam's Tool| 6.17.11 @ 1:05PM
Dear John,
Consistently stupid, like your best friends Clint and Jack, aren't you?
The US, under our next President, is going to respond to the attempted nuclear terrorist attacks of early 2013 with overwhelming force. You are going to watch your world turn to slok.
Clint| 6.17.11 @ 7:16PM
You're A Slandering Liar, Zany Crazed Israel Firster Traitor Bastard Fanatic Neo-Chickenhawk Coward Tool Job.
Apparently, You're Still All Atwitter & Fixated Because Many Of We Tea Party Patriots Don't Asskiss Your Personal Screwball Fanatic Israel Firster Agenda.
We Tea Party Patriots Have Two Of Our Candidates, Dr.Ron Paul & Michelle Bachmann In The Running For The 2012 GOP Presidential Primary, & We're Pushing for Sarah Palin To Join Them.
Take Two Shock Treatments And Call Yourself In The Morning.
Matthew| 6.17.11 @ 10:10PM
What a vile creature you are. Did your parents actually raise you to be this way, or is it something you aspired to?
Vile Creatures R Us| 6.18.11 @ 8:02AM
You're An Anti-Vilite ?
Occam's Tool| 6.19.11 @ 12:24AM
Bachmann and Paul have diametrically opposed views on foreign policy.
Truth is an absolute defense, Clint. You want to see little babies beheaded by maniacs, as does Paul.
Occam's Tool| 6.19.11 @ 12:25AM
Palin's foreign policy is also diametrically opposed to Paul.
Occam's Tool| 6.19.11 @ 7:54AM
Yes, a terrorist catamite would have a thing about kissing asses, wouldn't he?
Occam's Tool| 6.19.11 @ 7:56AM
Yup, Clint, and two out of the three of them are strong Zionists. Puts you in the minority, don't it, Clint?
Leo| 6.17.11 @ 1:41PM
Turkish success story is based on green money from rich Arabs and Gulf states. Islam and democracy is like oil and water it can't be blend. New Turkish democratic constitution is noting more a ruse. Erdogan's dream is to became a Sultan for life and a new Constitution is a toll to achieve it.
John| 6.17.11 @ 2:21PM
Is this a fable from the Arabian nights. Turkey has been a great moderating influence in the world especially in the ME. It has pioneered a unique path in a region laid waste by tyrants and occupations. Its seems odd to me that this great nation is continually denigrated on this website. There is a disease in America where instead of finding friends in this world some Americans seek out enemies. The end point of such a policy is not a good place. Even if you had one brain cell it would obvious that turkey is a central and vital ally. Unfortunately some are embittered by rampant islamophobia and will never understand. America will never gain anything by making the Muslim world its enemy. Thankfully most Americans especially the political elite understand this truism. Peace.
Leo| 6.17.11 @ 5:01PM
John,
I do have more than one brain cell, maybe more than you. I was born, educated and grew up in Turkey. And I still have family there. Unfortunately you have no knowledge on the history or what's going on in the Middle East.
Occam's Tool| 6.19.11 @ 7:53AM
Thank you, Leo. Like the great Byzantine Emperor?
RCV| 6.17.11 @ 11:20AM
Mustafa Kemal -- Attatturk, was one of the great visionaries of the twentieth century. He led modern Turkey out of the medeival backwardness of the Ottoman empire, and strived to create a dynamic secular Turkish Republic that could integrate into the modern world. He single handedly transformed Turkey's language, culture, political system, abolsihed the caliphate, and freed Turkey from the yoke of theocratic tyranny. It has been sad to watch some try and dismantle his accomplishments, but there remains hope for Turkey to stay the course.
Pelligrino| 6.18.11 @ 2:14PM
There are only two things presently keeping Turkey from completely going more fanatical islamic:
1. Western European tourism. Western Europeans have flocked to Turkey's southern coast for decades now. Northern Europeans want sun, resorts, water to swim in and much cheaper prices than Italy, France, or Spain. Turkey's coastline provides all of this. And this tourism cash cow is one Turkey prizes, so they won't be too overt with the radicalsim in those places.
2. Trade and commerce with European nations. It is not like Arab lands can afford Turkey's produced goods. One gets more money for the products and trade with Europe, thus a semblance of normality and downplaying of the islamic advancements.
No, sadly, Turkey is done for. Despite the above, the path ahead is clear: Radical islam throughout most parts of Turkey. Definitely within its ruling elites and the top generalship.
No, Turkey is not a "success story." Just the opposite.
And, yes, Europeans should send their never-integrating (3rd and 4th generation -- born in Euruope/not born in Turkey) Turks home to Turkey.
Joe D.| 6.17.11 @ 12:11PM
Once again Muslims ruining what was good. Now Obama will want to be friends with them more. He never met a tyrant he did not like.
bobmontgomery| 6.17.11 @ 1:20PM
Do you suppose Huma Abedin is ably assisting Hillary Clinton in dealing with matters like this and do you suppose Huma's mother's input was helpful when Hillary and Huma visited her in Saudi Arabia recently?
jgo| 6.17.11 @ 3:19PM
I'm also surprized that no one has mentioned the Turkish, somewhat radical Islamic, Guelen (Gulen; it's one of those umlaut things) movement's beach-head in the USA with their hundreds of charter schools that can't make do with US teachers, but must import Turkish speaking guest-teachers.
Pelligrino| 6.18.11 @ 2:25PM
jgo, plesase expand on what you mention here. What Gulen 'beachhead?' I need to get up to speed on this.
Visiting Williamsburg, Virginia for a conference last winter, I got delayed. Waiting in a hotel lobby, I watched and listened to two (what turned out to be) Turkish men about 24-28 years old. They were American residents? Here on permanent work status? They were clearly not guests or short term visitors; they were full-time cab drivers in that part of Hampden Roads.
They instantly reminded me of the ill-mannered, uneducated, criminally-minded, vile lot that infest so many parts of Europe.
Please, that is not an expression of some sort of terrible bias or hatred. I have observed and witnessed and learned and experienced ALL of this for decades.
It was just very odd to see two Turkish men "very much at home" in touristy Virginia in the low season.
America does not need this. Please expand on what you write, jgo. Thank you.
William| 6.17.11 @ 3:56PM
I'm not sure of the point of this article. But it again demonstrates the shortsighted, counterproductivity of the French arrogance.
Yani| 6.18.11 @ 11:45AM
"Neo-Islam"?
What, is that like the New Islam that replaces the old Islam or something?
Weird.
Anthony M| 6.18.11 @ 3:15PM
Letting the Turks into the EU is equivalent to letting the Visigoths cross the Rhine.
martin j smith| 6.19.11 @ 10:07AM
Turkey will forward or backward--I see backward so far. Being an Islamic State will assure that Turkey cannot be trusted because it will assure that it will have less in common with the West. For me West is best. The Turkish Government under Erdogan 's positions will mean it will be on the wrong side of the divide.
David C| 6.20.11 @ 12:29AM
Just how is the title "Neo-Islam Stalls" descriptive of this essay?
weddingdresses | 6.20.11 @ 2:26AM
I'm not sure of the point of this article. But it again demonstrates the shortsighted, counterproductivity of the French arrogance.