Rethinking Eurasian Geopolitics: Assessing Türkiye’s Influence and the Organization of Turkic States’ Impact

Abstract

This study examines power shifts in the Eurasian Region in the 21st century using traditional geopolitical approaches. These approaches center on the geographical factors that drive the expansion of borders, considering the control exerted by states over geographical areas. The study uses qualitative research methods to evaluate the position of Türkiye, which has gained an active role in global politics with its developing political and economic power within ever-changing Eurasian geopolitics. Composed of three parts, the study examines geopolitical ruptures in Eurasia during the Cold War. It delves into the areas of dominance held by the United States (U.S.), China, and Russia, which came to the forefront during discussions of the unipolar world order in the international system after the end of the Cold War. Simultaneously, the study explores a shift in actors within the international system, as well as changes among global and regional powers. The focus of the study is on issues such as Türkiye’s political presence, security phenomena, economic developments, energy investments, and diversity in Eurasia, wherein Türkiye’s presence and influence in Eurasia following its position shifting from a regional actor to a global actor, are revealed. While Türkiye’s presence in the region constitutes the main focus of the study, the effect of the Organization of Turkic States on Eurasian geopolitics is also examined.