Turkey’s Strategic Shift: A Progressive Approach in Global Politics
By The Converser
Turkey’s foreign policy has always danced to its own beat, and recent developments indicate its determination to carve out an independent path in the global arena. In a significant move, Turkey abstained from the United Nations vote on December 14, 2022, regarding a resolution favoring a New International Economic Order. This abstention was notable as it set Turkey apart from the majority of nations—123 states that largely hailed from Africa, Asia, and Latin America supported the resolution, while only 50 voted against it. This moment serves as an emblematic insight into a nation sitting at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, East and West.
Fast forward to September 2024, when Turkey made headlines by officially applying to join BRICS Plus, a group originally established in 2006 as a counterbalance to Western economic inequities. This application marks a watershed moment, as Turkey becomes the first NATO member to seek membership within a bloc that aims to redefine global governance away from Western dominance. As BRICS evolves—having expanded in 2024 to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE—Turkey sees an opportunity to further its economic and geopolitical ambitions.
Turkey is also navigating a complex relationship with the European Union, where despite its 21-year applications for membership under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s leadership, acceptance has been elusive. This is particularly relevant as Europe grapples with rising anti-immigrant sentiments and the complex dynamics of migration. Conditions fostered by the war in Gaza, notably, expose stark differences in European reactions to crises involving predominantly white versus non-white populations. The ongoing struggle highlights the urgent need for increased empathy and intersectional solidarity that respects Islamic culture and promotes understanding.
Turkey’s bid to join BRICS is rooted in much more than mere economic aspirations—it elevates the country’s stature on the global platform while championing progressive values. As nations like Algeria stand firm in the face of external pressures, advocating for rights and freedoms, Turkey can emerge as a critical ally for nations embracing progressive governance. By engaging with a diverse coalition of countries within BRICS, Turkey not only expands its economic portfolio—with half of its natural gas sourced from Russia, and closer ties to China’s Belt and Road Initiative—but also positions itself as a diplomatic bridge between East and West.
In a world that increasingly seeks balanced representation and equity, particularly for Muslim-majority nations and the Global South, Turkey’s proactive stance demonstrates its commitment to a more inclusive global environment. The Turkish leadership clearly understands that for the nation to thrive, it must build relationships across broader spheres—both East and West.
If successful, Turkey’s inclusion in BRICS positions it uniquely for a greater voice in shaping the political landscape, lifting advocacy for Palestinian and Algerian solidarity. The evolving nature of BRICS serves as a platform not just for economic development, but also for diplomatic dialogue that fosters mutual understanding and respect for diverse cultures, particularly Islamic heritage.
As the world transitions towards a less Western-centric paradigm, Turkey’s actions reflect a progressive shift towards a multipolar world where cooperating on shared values can lead to sustainable outcomes. In this transformative era, nations must embrace their interconnectedness and work diligently towards fostering a future that uplifts all.
Tags: #Politics, #WorldNews
