Cooperation with international organizations as a factor in increasing the state’s competitiveness and modernization of public administration in the field of regional development (the example of Turkey)

Abstract

The article is devoted to analyzing the role of international organizations in enhancing the competitiveness of the state and modernizing public administration in regional development. The authors examined how the “policy transfer” takes place and affects the state’s competitiveness in Turkey’s example. Based on the concept of Rose on “policy transfer” and the study of E. Ertugal on the interaction of Turkey with the EU in this sphere, the authors explored the causes and methods of policy transfer of regional development; what roles do international organizations, such as the EU and the OECD, play in this process, what stages and results of policy transfer of regional development in Turkey. The authors characterized the features of the stages of policy transfer of regional development, determined the dynamics of integration of Turkey to the EU depending on the adaptation of its regional standards, legislation, and institutions to the European requirements, and increased Turkey’s competitiveness level. This improved the image of Turkey as a reliable and progressive partner and increased its attractiveness to foreign investors, trade partners, and tourists. Policy transfers of regional development also contributed to the modernization and diversification of Turkey’s economy, as it stimulated the development of regions that traditionally lagged the central and coastal areas. This enabled the country to use its potential in agriculture, industry, energy, transport, education, science, and innovation. This also helped to reduce regional inequality, poverty, and social tension, especially among the Kurdish population. The authors note that policy transfer of regional development also contributed to the enhancement of democracy and decentralization of governance in Turkey, as it strengthened the role and responsibility of regional and local authorities, as well as involved the public and civil society organizations in the process of planning and implementation of regional policy. This also enabled the country to increase its transparency, objectivity, and openness and prevent and fight corruption and clientelism. Keywords: cooperation, international organizations, competitiveness, public administration, regional development.