An Analysis on the Image of NATO in Türkiye

Abstract

Considering its geographical location, strategic importance, and geopolitical depth, Türkiye’s NATO membership plays a significant role in current regional and international developments. Besides, Türkiye's military and economic strength, trained human resources, geographical location, and extensive maritime and land borders represent a strategic potential to contribute to NATO's efforts in maintaining regional security and stability. Nevertheless, Türkiye’s membership in NATO is discussed by some allied countries. Türkiye's national security policies are also not always in line with other NATO member countries. This causes relations to fluctuate. The course of relations also influences Turkish public perceptions of NATO's organizational image. The primary purpose of this research is to disclose how NATO has an image in Turkish society as an intergovernmental military alliance. Since quantitative data are taken as the basis of the research, a questionnaire was employed as a data collection method. For the research, 1436 participants from different regions of Türkiye were accessed via a simple random sampling method. Based on the findings obtained as a result of the research, it is apparent that a large part of the participants does not have a clear view regarding NATO. In terms of demographic data, it was understood that female, single, 18-25 years of age and student-weighted participants had higher positive, negative, and general NATO perceptions than the others. Besides, it was observed that the group that perceived NATO as the most negative educational situation was those who had graduated from elementary school. As a result, about half of the participants believe that Türkiye should remain in the NATO, but in the event of any war, NATO will leave Türkiye alone. This situation indicates that NATO membership is strategically crucial, but it also gives the impression that the Turkish people are worried about trust. According to the findings of the study, the majority of the participants consider the USA as the main threat against Türkiye, on the other hand Azerbaijan is regarded as Türkiye's most important partner and friend in the international arena.