A Strategic Actor in the Energy Corridor: An Analysis of Türkiye’s Geopolitical Position in the Context of Geopolitical Theories
Keywords:
Geopolitics, Geopolitical Theories, Energy Security, Strategic Energy CorridorsAbstract
Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Türkiye holds a strategic position in the transportation of energy resources from supplier regions such as the Caspian, the Middle East, and Russia to major consumer markets in Europe. This study analyzes Türkiye’s geopolitical role in global energy politics within the framework of classical and contemporary geopolitical theories. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as Mackinder’s Heartland Theory, Spykman’s Rimland Theory, Mahan’s Sea Power Doctrine, Seversky’s Air Power Theory, Huntington’s Clash of Civilizations, Fukuyama’s End of History, and Brzezinski’s Grand Chessboard Strategy, the study argues that Türkiye’s energy policy is shaped by a multidimensional geopolitical structure. The study employs a qualitative content analysis based on classical and contemporary geopolitical theories to examine Türkiye’s energy strategy in a theoretical-historical context. While classical geopolitical theories emphasize geographic determinism and military capabilities, contemporary approaches highlight ideological orientations, civilizational identities, and soft power instruments. Within this theoretical framework, Türkiye’s involvement in projects such as TANAP, BTC, and TurkStream reflects its strategic ambition not only to act as a transit country but also to become a regional energy hub. The study concludes that Türkiye’s geopolitical importance in energy security arises from a combination of multilayered factors including its geographic location, infrastructural investments, regional diplomacy, and military modernization. Therefore, understanding Türkiye’s strategic position in the context of energy politics requires an interdisciplinary perspective that integrates geography, international relations, and energy economics.References
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