All Policy Analysis by Soner Cagaptay

The Turkish coup of 1980 demonstrates that army intervention can restore democracy in some cases, while Turkey's generally successful development since then illustrates the role that the military, other institutions, and the international community can play in moderating Islamist movements.

Turkey can minimize its exposure to long-term chaos next door by building bridges with the Syrian Alawites, and the opposition Republican People's Party could be the perfect partner for the job.

The director of the Institute's Turkish Research Program addressed the House regarding the large-scale demonstrations that have swept Turkey since May. The following is an excerpt from his prepared remarks; download the PDF to read the full testimony. Also read Ambassador James Jeffrey's testimony before the same panel. "Turkey, a

On June 13, 2013, Soner Cagaptay and James F. Jeffrey addressed a Policy Forum at The Washington Institute. Mr. Jeffrey is the Philip Solondz distinguished visiting fellow at the Institute and former U.S. ambassador to Turkey (2008-2010) and Iraq (2010-2012). Dr. Cagaptay, author of the forthcoming book The Rise of

Turkey can become the first consolidated Muslim democracy if Erdogan begins to respect the will of his people.

Even if this week's demonstrations fizzle away, grassroots activism and middle-class demands for liberties have apparently become a force in Turkish politics.

The war in Syria could bring Ankara and Washington closer together.

Sectarian flames are melting away Turkey's hard-earned soft power in the Middle East and pushing Ankara closer to Washington.

More decisive American engagement would simultaneously end doubts about the United States’ commitment to Syria and save Turkey from being pulled further into a conflict that threatens to derail the impressive political and economic progress of the last decade.

Turkey's worsening border situation gives President Obama considerable asking power with Erdogan on a variety of issues, including Iran, Israel, and domestic reform.