TURKEY’S SECURITY PERCEPTIONS

Abstract

In Turkey, national security is generally perceived as a condition in which national and territorial integrity and the constitutional establishment are secured and economic and social progress is sustained. The objectives depicted in this definition also correspond, respectively, to national interests. While national interests drive security policies, history and geography shape security perceptions. Leaving policies to politicians and bureaucrats, this paper will first recap on Turkey’s historical heritage, then discuss its strategic prominence; and finally, present a short overview of Turkey’s defence and security concerns in the current strategic environment.