The Catalytic Role of Maritime Trade as a Strategic Component of the Maritimization Policies of the Republic of Türkiye in the 21st Century

Abstract

Since the advent of civilization, the seas have constituted a primary domain for the execution of profound cultural and commercial exchanges among humankind. This connectivity of the sea has had a positive impact on the welfare levels of societies over time. A historical analysis reveals that nations that have utilized the sea and exercised influence over maritime trade have attained a more effective position in foreign policy compared to other actors. It is widely acknowledged that the capital accumulation that precipitated the Industrial Revolution in the West was facilitated by Great Britain's expansion across continents. Consequently, it is evident that phenomena such as capitalism, modernity, and imperialism, which would profoundly alter the course of world history, are intricately intertwined with trade conducted via maritime routes. It can be posited that a comparable process is occurring in the contemporary era of globalization. The interactions between maritime civilizations or civilizations with coastlines have also resulted in cultural and material accumulation. Throughout history, the role and influence of the sea have increased exponentially. Despite the advent of technological developments and the evolution of communication tools in the 21st century, which have profoundly transformed the manner in which societies interact, a significant portion of the global exchange of needs, which are inherently interdependent in domains such as energy, raw materials, food, and numerous others, continues to occur through maritime routes. In this context, maritime policies and strategies pertaining to maritime trade as an economic factor play a pivotal role in the foreign policy strategies that countries formulate in accordance with their national security, sovereignty rights, and national interests. The geographical reality that the Republic of Türkiye is encircled by bodies of water on three sides underscores the significance of maritime prowess and the seas' integral role in overall power capacity. The objective of this study is to underscore the significance of maritime trade as a component of Turkish maritime power and to provide a comparative assessment of the policies pursued in this regard in light of current global trends. The study aims to reveal the current state of international competitiveness and to present a future projection aimed at increasing this competitiveness. The study commences with an examination of the historical evolution of the Turkish maritime sector. This is followed by a global and regional assessment of the sector's present capacity, which is based on quantitative and qualitative data. At this juncture, the extant policies that have been implemented, in conjunction with the factors associated with the efficacy of these policies, are identified. These factors are examined under the headings of nationalization of technologies in the maritime sector, creation of a national maritime culture, and development of sustainable policies. In conclusion, the pivotal elements of the forthcoming Turkish maritime policy will be emphasized.