Why is Erdogan risking so much for Istanbul’s mayoralty?

It had almost an immediate cost in cash. Worse, the Europeans expressed worry, the Turkish opposition screamed electoral theft, and the Americans - well, the Americans have yet to take a firm position, but don't be surprised when Washington suddenly discovers its democratic scruples when it serves U.S. interest. The decision by Turkey's electoral board, …

What the hell just happened to Turkey?

And "to" seems the right word, because this was done to Turkey by Recip Tayyip Erdogan and his political machine.  International electoral monitors cite fraud; so too does the powerful Republican People's Party.  That hardly matters, it seems.  Turkish election officials will not allow a recount. And so even if cheated, it is a victory for …

Turkey’s Coup Signals A Generational Shift to Islamism

On Friday, a faction of the Turkish military tried to overthrow presidential strongman Recep Erdogan, leader of the Justice and Development Party and increasingly the man of Turkish politics.  They failed; first, they didn't kill or capture Erdogan in the opening moments of the coup, then they failed to shut off the Internet and media so …

The Geopolitics that allowed Turkey to down a Russian jet

Turkey shot down a Russian jet and got away with it. Why it wanted to, and why geopolitics allowed such a thing to happen.

Turkey’s 21st Century Could Be a Big One (Or: When your neighbors are derelicts, you’d be wise to do something about them)

Turkey is well-poised to enjoy a resurgence in the 21st century - unless the Kurds spoil the party.