Turkey's Nuclear Security Regime: An Assessment


UDUM Ş.

Middle East Policy, vol.30, no.4, pp.122-137, 2023 (SSCI) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 30 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2023
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/mepo.12716
  • Journal Name: Middle East Policy
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, IBZ Online, International Bibliography of Social Sciences, ABI/INFORM, Index Islamicus, PAIS International, Political Science Complete, Public Affairs Index, Sociological abstracts, Worldwide Political Science Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.122-137
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The 9/11 attacks prompted the development of an international nuclear security regime. States are expected to adopt legislation and institutionalize measures to ensure cooperation among stakeholders and create their own national nuclear security regimes. This article evaluates the steps taken by Turkey, a newcomer in nuclear energy. It argues that while Ankara has acted in line with its traditional conception of security, this is not enough. The inadequate cooperation and coordination among stakeholders, and the insufficient development of a security culture specifically oriented to nuclear energy, leave the country vulnerable. The analysis explains the vulnerabilities and incomplete tasks, and proposes actions necessary for Turkey to create a sound national nuclear security regime.