Ulusalcιlιk: The Neo-nationalist Resurgence in Turkey

Abstract: Nationalism has been a powerful force in Turkish politics since the founding of the Republic. Yet nationalist activists have become unusually strident in their rhetoric, coalescing around various radical political platforms to seek the ouster of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) regime, either through the ballot box or by violent means. This study considers the psychological and theoretical bases of Turkish nationalism and analyzes why militant nationalism is becoming a more significant political factor. Particular attention will be devoted to a loose collection of extremist organizations and media known as the 'ulusalclar.' Despite philosophical differences within the group, three fundamental elements in Ulusalc thought can be identified: uncompromising anti-Westernism; externalization of Islam from Turkish nationalism; and ethnic exclusionism. These elements, as well as social and political background and basic beliefs, are examined, the leading components of the neo-nationalist movement are identified, and their objectives and the tactics they use to achieve them are analyzed.