Türkiye's security policies in Somalia

This study examines the security policies implemented by Türkiye in Somalia, a strategically significant country in East Africa. Since 2011, the rapid development of relations between Türkiye and Somalia -within the framework of Türkiye's Africa Opening Policy- has gained a concrete dimension through increased activities in humanitarian aid, development cooperation, and military security. Türkiye's security policies toward Somalia transcend the classical understanding of humanitarian diplomacy by adopting a holistic approach that integrates security, development, and diplomacy. In this context, the study analyzes Türkiye's security policies in Somalia through both their military and diplomatic dimensions, arguing that these policies represent an extension of Türkiye's broader strategic vision in Africa. The main objective of the study is to reveal the nature of Türkiye's state behavior in its security strategy toward Somalia within the anarchic structure of the international system. Within the framework of realist and particularly neorealist security theory, it is argued that Türkiye pursues a state-centric security policy; however, this policy is shaped by a smart power strategy, distinguishing it from the classical understanding of power politics. In Somalia, Türkiye has developed a multidimensional and flexible security policy by combining elements of hard power (military training, security cooperation, counterterrorism) with instruments of soft power (humanitarian aid, development, and diplomacy). This approach demonstrates that Türkiye's objectives extend beyond security to include stability and sustainable development. The study employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing data primarily from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, TİKA, the Turkish Armed Forces, AFAD, the Directorate of Communications, and various academic sources. The findings indicate that Türkiye's security policies in Somalia are shaped around three main axes: 1. Military and Security Cooperation: The TÜRKSOM Military Training Base, inaugurated in 2017, is Türkiye's largest overseas military facility and plays a pivotal role in restructuring the Somali National Army. 2. Humanitarian and Development-Based Security Approach: Projects implemented in fields such as health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and public administration reinforce Türkiye's human security perspective. 3. Diplomatic and Strategic Sphere of Influence: Activities conducted through Türkiye's Embassy in Mogadishu, TİKA, and other institutions have positioned Türkiye as a stable and influential partner in the Horn of Africa. Evaluated within the framework of the smart power strategy, Türkiye's security policy in Somalia relies on a balanced use of hard and soft power. On the one hand, Türkiye trains the Somali army and strengthens security infrastructure; on the other, it improves living conditions through humanitarian diplomacy and development assistance. By combining military deterrence with development and humanitarian support, Türkiye aims to achieve long-term stability. This dual-track approach defines Türkiye's presence in Africa not merely as a security actor but also as a peace-building force. The findings further indicate that Türkiye's security policy in Somalia encompasses the objectives of counterterrorism, state-building, and regional stability. Türkiye perceives security not solely as a military concern but as an integral component of economic, social, and institutional development. Accordingly, Türkiye's Somalia policy can be viewed as a practical example of smart power in action. The integration of soft power elements with hard power capacity serves as a key indicator of Türkiye's growing influence on the global stage. In conclusion, Türkiye's security policies in Somalia present a distinctive model for achieving sustainable peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. Through its activities in Somalia, Türkiye has developed a multidimensional foreign policy approach grounded in smart power, effectively integrating the realms of security, development, and diplomacy. This reflects Türkiye's transformation from a regional actor into a rising global power.