Civil Military Relationship in Turkey Democratic Model

Introduction:

The Turkish model of democracy has been characterized by a complex interplay between democratic
institutions and the military establishment. Historically, the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) have held a
prominent and influential position in Turkish politics, often intervening in civilian affairs to safeguard
secularism, stability, and the Kemalist principles upon which modern Turkey was founded. Here are
some features of the Turkish model of democracy, focusing on the distinguished position of the armed
forces:

1. National Security Council:

 The NSC is established under Article 118 of the Turkish Constitution as the highest national
security body in Turkey. The NSC is composed of both civilian and military members, reflecting
the close relationship between the political leadership and the armed forces in matters of
national security.

 The President of Turkey serves as the chairman of the NSC, while other key members include
the Prime Minister, relevant ministers (e.g., defense, interior, foreign affairs), the Chief of the
General Staff, and other high-ranking military officials.

In the Turkish democratic model, the National Security Council (NSC) has historically played a significant
role in shaping national security policies, coordinating civilian-military relations, and influencing key
decisions affecting the country's stability and security.

2. Secularism and Kemalism:

 At the heart of the Turkish model is the principle of secularism, enshrined in the Turkish
Constitution and championed by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
Secularism has traditionally been upheld and defended by the military as a fundamental
pillar of the Turkish state, protecting it from the perceived threat of religious extremism
and ensuring the separation of religion and politics.

3. Guardianship Role of the Military:

 The Turkish military has historically seen itself as the guardian of secularism, tasked with
protecting the state from internal and external threats, including perceived threats from
political Islam, separatism, and communism. This perception has led to a tradition of
military intervention in politics, with the military staging coups or issuing ultimatums to
civilian governments deemed to be straying from Kemalist principles.

2. Constitutional Framework:

 The Turkish Constitution has historically granted the military significant influence and
autonomy, including the authority to intervene in politics to protect the secular order.
For example, the National Security Council (NSC), which includes top military
 commanders, has played a key role in decision-making on national security matters and
has often exerted influence over civilian governments.

3. Elected Civilian Governments:

 Despite the military's interventionist role, Turkey has also experienced periods of
democratic governance, with elected civilian governments holding power and
implementing various political and economic reforms. These governments have often
pursued policies aimed at modernization, European integration, and economic
development, albeit within the constraints imposed by the military's oversight.

4. Evolving Civil-Military Relations:

 In recent years, Turkey has witnessed a gradual shift in civil-military relations, with the
military's political influence diminishing and civilian authorities asserting greater control
over the state apparatus. This shift has been driven by factors such as Turkey's
aspirations for European Union membership, domestic reforms aimed at
democratization, and changes in the geopolitical landscape.

5. Challenges and Controversies:

 The Turkish model of democracy has faced criticism and controversy, particularly
regarding the military's interventionist role, violations of human rights, and restrictions
on political freedoms. Military coups and interventions have disrupted democratic
processes, undermined the rule of law, and hindered Turkey's progress towards greater
democratization and pluralism.

Conclusion :

In conclusion, the Turkish model of democracy has been shaped by the distinguished position of the
armed forces in Turkish politics, with the military traditionally playing a significant role in safeguarding
secularism and stability. While the military's influence has diminished in recent years, its legacy
continues to influence Turkey's political landscape, posing both challenges and opportunities for
democratic consolidation and reform.