Turkey's Unconsolidated Democracy: The Nexus between Democratisation and Majoritarianism in Turkey

Executive Summary

This policy brief examines the transformation of Turkish politics following the Justice and Development Party’s (AKP) rise to power in 2002 and its implications for democratic consolidation. Since coming to office, the AKP has steadily expanded its electoral support and emerged as the dominant political party in Turkey, while also introducing numerous political and legal reforms.

However, the study argues that underlying structural weaknesses within the Turkish political system have gradually become more visible. The process of democratization has been affected not only by formal reforms but also by institutional structures, political practices, and attitudes toward diversity and pluralism.

The report identifies several factors undermining democratic consolidation in Turkey: the systemic tendencies associated with “dominant party” politics, a growing democratic disconnect within society, weak checks and balances, and a persistent intolerance toward political and social diversity.

The policy brief concludes that these systemic deficiencies have contributed to the transformation of Turkey’s democratic consolidation process into a form of majoritarian authoritarianism, highlighting the need for stronger institutions, effective oversight mechanisms, and a more inclusive understanding of democracy.