From a quasi-model of economic success and democratic improvement ten years ago, Turkey has now adopted an uncomfortable posture that combines a recurrent display of hostility toward the West and forging shaky alliances with historically distant countries, such as Russia and Iran. Yet, the European and Western orientation of Turkey is still part of Ankara’s official narrative. This bipolar character may become a permanent feature; Europeans therefore need to learn how to handle Ankara’s roguishness and unpredictability while supporting Turkey’s liberal democrats for the long haul.
OP-ED
Marc Pierini: A tale of a dual Turkey
Turkish soldiers dressed as Janissaries (Yeniceri) from the Ottoman era, march during the 94th Republic Day parade, from the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) to the first Turkish Grand National Assembly building, in the Ulus district on Oct. 29 in Ankara, Turkey.
