Transformation of political parties in the process of social change: The case of CHP

After World War II, the world entered a period of rapid change and transformation. Technological advancements have been identified as the main catalyst for these changes and transformations. Developments in communication, transportation, and especially information technology have not only altered production technologies and methods but have also led to the globalization of capital, production, culture, and knowledge. This process of change has also had an impact on the social, cultural, and political structures and institutions of countries. Political institutions and political parties have been particularly affected. During this period, there have been changes in the ideological positioning of political parties, their leadership structures, membership composition, voter bases, and relationships with pressure groups. The process of change occurring in the world also affects Turkey and its social, cultural, and political structures and institutions. Among the political institutions, Turkey's political parties, and in particular the Republican People's Party with its long historical background, play a significant role. How is the CHP influenced by this process of change? How are the leadership and leadership cadres, membership structure, voter base, and relations with pressure groups shaped within the Republican People's Party ? Is there an ideological softening happening in the CHP similar to social democratic mass parties in Western Europe? Is the CHP turning into a "catch-all party"? This thesis study aimed to find answers to these questions. The research data was obtained through a literature review on the subject and interviews conducted with 26 elite members of the Republican People's Party . Content analysis was conducted to derive findings from the data collected through the interviews. According to the findings of the study, the Republican People's Party is influenced by and undergoing changes due to the societal transformation process, both at the global level and within the context of Turkey. Particularly, when examining the CHP's policies and discourse, a change can be observed that includes ideological softening, a decrease in the role of the party members, strengthening of the leadership and the central administration, and efforts to expand relations with the voter base and pressure groups, especially after 2010. These changes in the CHP indicate a progression towards becoming a "catch-all party".