Türkiye-Africa Relations: A Rigid Dichotomy between Humanitarian and Security?

Abstract

This paper explores Türkiye’s relations with Africa, focusing on Somalia, Nigeria and Libya from both humanitarian and security perspectives. To do so, the study employs the concept of soft power in relation to the security and humanitarian policies that Türkiye has adopted on the African continent. Though Türkiye has no significant colonial history on the continent like other European countries, its relations with Africa in recent decades are no secret and continue to strengthen against all odds. From a relationship that stems from historical links with the Ottoman Empire to more promising and positive impacts on the continent in recent years, it is important to understand these ties amidst the increasing distaste expressed by some African nations towards the West. Using examples of Türkiye’s security and humanitarian deployment in Somalia, Nigeria and Libya, as well as its humanitarian aid in Somalia and several other African countries, it is perhaps no surprise to perceive the relationship between Türkiye and African nations as a dichotomy between humanitarian and security, which might continue to improve in view of continued unrest on the continent.