While there is comprehensive literature on the role of religion in society (Mardin, 2006) terrorism (Juergensmeyer, 2008) regime characteristics (Menchik, 2016) and political parties (Layman and Layman, 2001); how it impacts “state identity” is a question that has received little attention. Öztürk’s book fills the gap by focusing on the role of religion shaping state identity by focusing to the case of Turkey with a historical approach. The book’s central puzzle is to investigate religion–state relationship as a crucial characteristic of “state ideology, identity and power” (Öztürk, 2020, p.12). By looking at Turkey’s Directorate of Religious Affairs, known as Diyanet’s influence in four case studies, the book builds a portrayal of the dynamics of change in state identity. It looks at how do these changes manifest themselves in various areas such as foreign policy orientations and preferences of home and host countries. 

While the book’s primary focus centers on the influence of religion under the AKP, it also sheds light on the significance of religion in shaping Turkish state identity. The initial chapters review the “institutional continuity” of the Diyanet, highlighting the contributions of different leaders in shaping this institution over time. Similarly, one of the strengths of this book lies in its examination of the processes of change, specifically how Turkey’s evolving foreign relations have influenced the perspectives of the host states. The author argues that the transition from a “secularist identity” to a religious one has profoundly impacted the dynamics of interaction. Furthermore, this emphasis on identity is intertwined with the importance of interests.

Drawing upon rich data accumulated over four years of fieldwork, the author demonstrates how religious soft power shapes Turkey’s foreign policy. The book shows the intricate relationship between religion and foreign policy by providing insightful anecdotes and reflections. For example, the author shares encounters with Bulgarian state officials who initially welcomed the input of the Diyanet. In the case of Albania, the book highlights Turkey’s role in exacerbating divisions among the country’s various Islamic factions.

The book offers a valuable contribution to understanding Turkish cultural diplomacy and its impact on state identity. It successfully bridges the gap in the existing literature by analysing the interplay between religion, foreign policy, and state identity.

The book addresses the growing interest in Turkey’s foreign policy and provides an on-the-ground focus on its identity and how it is manifested in the Balkans. The extensive fieldwork conducted in multiple countries adds originality, facilitates useful comparisons, and provides a compelling narrative about Turkey’s foreign policy identity. The insights gathered from interviews are valuable to researchers, especially given the challenges of data collection in a polarised political environment. Even though the author shares his reflections and how he is perceived by the actors in the field, there could have been more emphasis on reflexivity, and more reflections on power from the field dynamics. This would have provided the reader with a broader understanding of the fieldwork dynamics.

Bibliography

Bellin Eva (2008) Faith in Politics: New Trends in the Study of Religion and Politics” World Politics, Volume 60, Number 2

Juergensmeyer Mark (2008) Global Rebellion: Religious Challenges to the Secular State, from Christian Militias to al Qæda, University of California Press

Layman, G., & Layman, G. C. (2001) The great divide: religious and cultural conflict in American party politics.

Mardin, S. (2006) Religion, society, and modernity in Turkey. Syracuse University Press.

Menchik, J. (2016) Islam and democracy in Indonesia: Tolerance without liberalism. Cambridge University Press.