Mehmet Uğur Ekinci

Researcher
Received his B.A. in International Relations and his M.A. in History from Bilkent University. Having attended doctoral level courses at The Ohio State University and Bilkent University, he completed his Ph.D. in Politics and International Studies at SOAS, University of London. Among his research interests are contemporary Balkan politics, European politics, domestic-international linkages, Ottoman and Republican foreign policy and political history.
  • Southern Türkiye was jolted by twin earthquakes on February 6 that caused unprecedented devastation across an extremely vast area, impacting 11 provinces. Almost on par with the scale of the devastation, Türkiye has also received a huge amount of humanitarian aid from many countries with which Türkiye both has cordial and strained relations. In light of the considerable level of solidarity showcased by many countries, it is still unclear whether this atmosphere of solidarity and amicability will translate into tangible outcomes in the respective bilateral relations between Türkiye and these nations. Likewise, it is also unclear whether the solidarity displayed by countries with which Türkiye had tense relations until the earthquakes will cause a thaw in bilateral ties and lead to a new chapter in relations. We asked foreign policy experts to weigh in on these questions.
  • Is a conflict in the Balkans likely in a near future? What are the implications of global politics on the stability of the Balkans? How should the ongoing disputes in the region be resolved?
  • This analysis will outline political aspects of the current negotiations in Cyprus, examine the positions of the actors directly or indirectly involved in the issue, and assess the present and the future of the resolution process.
  • As the road map progresses, the EU is expected to gradually introduce visa facilitation for Turkey. A full visa exemption is stipulated to take place at the end of the process through the EU’s standard procedures.
  • This analysis offers a general assessment of Turkey’s relations with the Balkans under the AK Party government.