Policy Profile Türkiye

Introduction

The Republic of Türkiye is a candidate country for European Union (EU) membership. While being a candidate country implies a commitment to align with EU standards, it doesn’t mean that Türkiye is bound by all EU laws and regulations as a full member would be. 

Türkiye, the EU and Europe

Türkiye’s relationship with the European Union (EU) has been complex, characterised by a longstanding membership status alongside political and diplomatic challenges. Even though it has held candidate status since 1999, the membership progress has been stalled. 

While Türkiye’s EU accession process remains ongoing, the country participates in the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) to strengthen relations between the EU and neighbouring countries. The European Union maintains a Delegation to Türkiye in Ankara, and the Republic of Türkiye maintains a Permanent Delegation to the EU in Brussels. While shaping policy alignment on security, migration, and economic issues, Türkiye’s membership of the Council of Europe also mandates compliance with human rights and democracy.

National Cultural Policy in Türkiye

In terms of policy-making, Türkiye operates under a parliamentary system with a mix of presidential decrees and legislative processes overseen by Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi (Grand National Assembly of Türkiye). The Parliament consists of the National Assembly (the unicameral legislative body). Proposed laws are introduced as bills and must pass through several readings and committee reviews before being enacted. The Parliament holds the authority to amend the Constitution and enact laws in various areas, reflecting the country’s democratic governance structure.

Following the 2017 constitutional referendum, Türkiye transitioned into a presidential system, granting expanded powers to the President. While Parliament retains legislative authority, the President can issue decrees with the force of law in certain circumstances, especially concerning executive matters and emergencies. However, these decrees are subject to parliamentary scrutiny and can be overturned by the Parliament.

Türkiye employs a comprehensive approach to managing its cultural assets, overseen by the Kültür ve Turizm Bakanlığı (Ministry of Culture and Tourism). Legal frameworks, including the Law on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Assets and the Law on Museums, guide cultural heritage identification, preservation, and promotion. Collaboration with international organisations like UNESCO enhances efforts to nominate sites for World Heritage status and exchange expertise. This strategy ensures the sustainable conservation and transmission of Türkiye’s diverse cultural legacy while fostering appreciation and understanding domestically and globally.

Regional Policies in Türkiye

In Türkiye, local governments contribute to cultural policy-making at regional and local levels within a centralised administrative structure. While they have some autonomy, their powers are constrained by national regulations and oversight. Local authorities implement cultural programs and manage infrastructure, adapting policies to local needs within the framework set by the central government. Despite this centralised approach, Türkiye’s diverse regional cultures are acknowledged, allowing for flexibility in cultural initiatives. Overall, while regional and local governments play a role in cultural affairs, they operate within the parameters established by national laws and policies, ensuring alignment with overarching objectives.

View all Türkiye policies gathered so far

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* = This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence

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