On the eve of Turkey's presidential and parliamentary elections, many experts are predicting that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will once again emerge victorious. But why is this the case? What factors are contributing to Erdoğan's enduring popularity among Turkish voters, despite widespread concerns about his authoritarian tendencies and the country's economic and political challenges?
In this podcast, we delve into the complex dynamics shaping Turkey's electoral landscape and examine the key factors that could help Erdoğan win another term in office. Rob lived in Türkiye for many years which gives him a unique perspective on Turkey's politics, economics, and society.
From Erdoğan's ability to change his political direction on a dime, to his government's crackdown on opposition voices and civil society, to the role of Turkey's economy and foreign policy in shaping voters' preferences, we explore the multifaceted dimensions of Turkey's upcoming elections and what they could mean for the country's future.
Join us as we unpack the many factors that could help Erdoğan win the elections, and what this could mean for Turkey's democracy, its relations with the West, and the wider geopolitical landscape in the Middle East and beyond.