The Impact of the Syrian Crisis on Turkey's International Standing 2011 - 2023.

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to emphasize the Syrian crisis and its impact on the international standing of Turkey from 2011 to 2023. The Syrian crisis was considered as an independent variable, while Turkey's international stature was the dependent variable, illustrating how the former influences the latter. The study explored the interplay between the Syrian crisis and Turkey's international stature, their relationship, and the trajectory of Syrian-Turkish relations. It examined the role, policies, and tools of the Turkish Government towards the Syrian crisis, assessing the extent to which Turkey's international standing has been enhanced through these policies and tools.

Methods: The study employed the national interest approach as an analytical tool, grounded in the concept of power. This approach aligns with realist theory in international relations, viewing international relations as a constant struggle to enhance state power and employ it according to national interests or strategic imperatives.

Results: The study revealed that Turkey has actively engaged in the Syrian crisis with a pragmatic policy focused on Turkish national interests. Initially, Turkey advocated for and sought the overthrow of Assad, but later shifted towards accepting reconciliation and normalization with the Assad regime.

Conclusions: The study identified a correlation between the Syrian crisis and Turkey's international standing, indicating that the crisis has contributed to strengthening Turkey's global position.