Application possibilities of regional development agencies in Turkey economy under European Union perspective

Economy of country consists of regional economies which micro units are clustered. If it is desired to develop country?s economy, regional dynamics should be activated. But, development differences between regions effects the country?s development negatively. In this context, policies, that aim to overcome disparities between regions, should be developed. Some instruments are needed to apply such policies. One of the most effective instruments is Regional Development Agencies. Agencies, work for renewing, organizing and developing economy by starting up regional economy. When domestic dynamics are not enough for development of region, Agencies which has capacity to bring foreign investments, act an important role on developing process of the region people. In the first chapter of the study, factors that cause disparity in regional development process have been analyzed and have been dwelled on various region definitions. Then, regional development theories have been researched; regional development objects and instruments have been examined in the perspective of regional development strategy and policy. In the second chapter, after discussing EU with associations and countries, regional disparities in selected countries have been scrutinized. Afterwards, regional policy objects and instruments have been analyzed in the perspective of EU regional strategy and policy; Development Agencies as a regional development policy instrument in EU have been dealt with. In the third chapter, causes of regional development differences in Turkey have been examined; regional differences statistically have been revealed by using MDS method. It has been approved with this application which regions of Turkey are in need of Development Agencies. After that, Regional Development Policy of Turkey and Development Agencies in Turkey have been researched. At last, a model has been put forward for success of Development Agencies? that are established in Turkey in accordance with holistic approach leaning against technology in the development of Turkey. It is evaluated that, if the model put in practice in coordination with the central government, Development Agencies that have been established, would act leader role in their region and would provide contribution to sustainable development process of Turkey