Understanding Turkey`s environmental problems from security perspective

Abstract

The concept of environmental security is rooted in the belief that the deterioration of the environment and the lack of resources might jeopardize the stability and longevity of nations. Hence, this essay endeavors to assess the viability of environmental security as a determinant of conflict in Turkey, a country that has witnessed an environmental degradation over the past few decades. This article posits that, with regards to potential conflicts between Turkey and its neighboring nations, it is unlikely that any environmental issues, aside from transboundary water sharing, would serve as a primary catalyst for war. However, they may indirectly worsen Turkey� relations with bordering countries. This is because resource scarcity, environmental degradation and climate-induced mass foreign migration and asylum seekers can cause political and social disorder and cultural corruption in Turkey. The potential consequences of these indirect impacts pose a risk of social, political and cultural deterioration in Turkey and its ties with neighboring countries through worsening dynamics linked to security.